Gem of the Hills - 2006 Fall

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Denis Droulers

Q. What is your current occupation and where do you live?

A. After 29 years with IBM, in various Finance positions across several countries and following a major reorganization, I took an early retirement at the end of 2005. I am currently living in France, sharing my time between my home in the Paris suburbs and the remodeling of an old one in the South West.

Q. What years were you enrolled at the International House and what were some of the highlights of your time there?

A. I attended the International House Program from 1972 to 1974. I remember landing for the first time in Anniston, late August, with my winter jacket and winter coat on as I could not fit them in my suitcase - temperature in the high 90’s and probably 95% humidity. I was proud to be nominated as the Rotary Club scholarship recipient in 1974 and invited as a guest and speaker to the Alabama French Convention.

Q. What are some of your most important accomplishments since leaving JSU? A. After my two years in Jacksonville, I finished my studies and graduated from Seattle University. Upon my return to France, I applied for a job with IBM and joined their European HQ in Paris as a financial analyst. As part of their international division I traveled extensively and lived many years in foreign countries, in particular Italy and South Africa.

Q. What was your major? What are some of your fondest memories of JSU? A. My B.A. was in Business Administration with a major in Finance. The one memory which has had an ever lasting impact on me, is the impressive personality of Dr. J.R. Stewart. He was of an immense support, provided numerous and well appreciated advices. Throughout the years, he was an example; I owe him a great part of the person I became.

Q. What skill did you acquire at JSU that has helped you the most?

A. JSU and the International House Program helped me in improving further an understanding of the difference between people and often be able to build and benefit from it.. The years in JSU and the International House, both in terms of human experience and academics were key to my development and in the formatting of the person I became.

Q. What “life advice” would you give to JSU students today?

A. To each one his or her own recipe for success. But the world is shrinking, today most are traveling a lot more than we did thirty years ago and I do not believe that the change will stop here. I would encourage all students to widen their awareness and understanding far beyond their state and their country border lines.

The Alumni Magazine of Jacksonville State University Vol. XIII, No. 2

JSU President William A. Meehan, Ed.D., ’72/’76 Vice President for Institutional Advancement Joseph A. Serviss, ’69/’75 Alumni Association President Sarah Ballard,’69/’75/’82 Director of Alumni Affairs and Editor Kaci Ogle, ’95/’04 Art Director Mary Smith, ’93

Dr. William A. Meehan, President

Staff Artists Stacy Wood Rusty Hill Copyeditor/Proofreader Gloria Horton Staff Writers Al Harris, ’81/’91 Farshad Makaripoor, ’05 Photographer Steve Latham

22

Giving Back

Playing by Faith

26 30

Barbara Curry

Gem of the Hills is published by the Division of Institutional Advancement, 700 Pelham Road North, Jacksonville, Alabama 36265-1602.

© 2006 Jacksonville State University Phone:

256-782-5404

Fax:

256-782-5502

Email:

alumni@jsu.edu

Website: www.jsu.edu/alumni

Dear Alumni, Once again, we’re proud to present another magazine brimming with news, profiles, and features.

I know it’s difficult for those of you with family and career obligations to return to campus as often as you’d like. However, JSU is offering two outstanding “excuses” to return “home” this fall. Our annual Homecoming celebration is set for Saturday, October 21 (culminating in the JSU vs. Tennessee State game beginning at 2:30 p.m.). Then, on Saturday, November 11, the Southerners will hold their historic fiftieth anniversary reunion performance. You’ll find complete information about both events inside, and I hope you can join us for one or both occasions.

Departments 2 Gamecock Talk 11 News 15 Homecoming Schedule 18 IHP Reunion 20 Features 24 Southerners Reunion 34 Sports 38 With Alumni 40 AlumNotes 50 Capital Campaign News

Jennifer Knight Carmichael, ‘82/’87, JSU’s 2004 Outstanding Alumna of the Year, serves as an excellent example of a graduate who finds a way to give something back to her alma mater. Mrs. Carmichael, an assistant inspector general in the Defense Intelligence Agency, recently spent time with Dr. Rick Davis’ police administration students to teach them how to apply for federal jobs. You can read some of the insights she shared with students beginning on page 22.

Lee Greenwood was skeptical about hiring blind musician Gordon Mote -- until he heard him perform, that is. Mr. Mote, who attended JSU from 1987 to 1991, describes some of his career experiences beginning on page 26.

On page 3, we bring you up to date on progress as renovation and construction projects change the appearance of campus.

I hope you enjoy this issue, and I look forward to seeing you on campus again soon.

Sincerely,

William A. Meehan President On the cover: The Eifle Tower

Alumni reunited in Paris, France to reminisce and reunite with fellow classmates.

Alumni Association Executive Officers: Sarah Ballard, ’69/’75/’82, president; Pam Young, ’77, past president; Don Killingsworth, ’99/’01, vice president; Mark Jones, ’82/’83, treasurer; Nancy Turner, recording secretary; Kaci Ogle, ’95/’04, executive director; Alan Renfroe, ’88, assistant director.

Gamecock Talk Opera Experiences Revival at JSU

Opera is experiencing an unprecedented revival at Jacksonville State University, drawing large numbers of old and new fans to a dramatic art form that conveys a story’s emotional content through vocal and instrumental music.

Thought to have originated in Italy in the 1600s (though some forms date back much further), opera places great importance on music as a way of telling the story and conveying emotion. The music is said to be of chief importance, in contrast to its presentation in standard musicals, in which words and music usually appear to have equal importance.

Although no one knows for sure, it’s thought that opera appeals so greatly to fans at JSU because it speaks to people who love a combination of several art forms presented at once in a lavish display. Painting, scenery -- sometimes even sculpture -- and other visually-rich props present a thrilling panoply on stage. And dancing is often an exciting part of the spectacle.

Jacksonville Opera Theater (JOT) will present Engelbert Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel in November 2006. This promises to be another milestone for JOT because the production will present elementary-age children as a chorus.

“When I arrived at JSU three years ago, it had been at least 15 years since there had been an opera performed here,” said Dr. Nathan Wight, JSU assistant professor of music. “I decided that opera needed to be included in the standard productions here

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because it is such an integral part of western music history and our students here were graduating without first-hand exposure.”

Wight holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts (DMA) in performance from Arizona State University. He received his Master of Music from Rice University and his Bachelor degrees in Voice and Biology from Abilene Christian University.

“JOT began its first year with two one-act productions, Signor Deluso by Thomas Passatieri and Down in the Valley by Kurt Weill,” said Wight. “These were well received by the audience and students alike.

The following year saw the production of the 20th Century operas, The Telephone by Gian Carlo Menotti, A Question of Taste

by William Schuman, and Lunatics and Lovers by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart which followed in the spring of 2005. We also introduced Dinner and Opera tickets to our patrons, which gave them a unique opportunity to enjoy an elegant dinner at Classic on Noble, a lecture about the production, and reserved seating for the opera production.”

“This is important to student productions because there are some operas that are beyond the scope of collegiate production, yet a scenes program allows the student the opportunity to perform some of the best opera literature,” he said. “JOT also saw the most successful production to date in The Gondoliers by Sir Arthur Sullivan this past May.” Opera at JSU, according to Wight, is different from the standard dramatic production on campus because it does involve music as a way of conveying story and emotion in the production. The emotional presentation is usually because the drama unfolds more slowly, due to the length set forth by the music.

These elements allow the performer and audience the opportunity to experience more nuances of emotion that may be involved in the situation that is being presented.

“JSU is primarily an institution dedicated to the production of educators,” said Wight. “It would be a crime on our part to have new vocal music educators graduat-

ing from here who had not been exposed to opera. Opera has been the fastest growing art form in the United States for some time.

We are now able to let the students see firsthand all of the details that go into a production. It is also important for future educators to observe the amount of work involved in a production, because many of them will end up doing productions of some sort with their ensembles. Collegiate opera gives them a unique exposure to managerial skills that are necessary in dealing with performers, technicians, staff, patrons, and supporters. They will hopefully leave here with a newfound love of not only the art form, but a newfound respect for the production of this art form.”

“Our patron attendance and support have almost tripled in the past three years, and we have seen a tremendous increase in corporate sponsorship. We have also successfully launched a new high school educational component this year with the Youth Apprentice Program. We have seen a great group of high school students participate in the chorus of The Gondoliers. The program allowed the apprentices the opportunity to grow musically and dramatically. As one of the parents said, ‘it is like a light has suddenly come on in my son!’”

For more information, contact Dr. Nathan Wight at (256) 782-5876 or e-mail him at nwight@JSU.edu Scholarship efforts being made in honor of Dr. Richard R. Armstrong Alumni Kenneth Shaw ’79 and Timothy M. Ballard ‘90/04 are working with the JSU Foundation to raise funds to honor Dr. Armstrong by establishing a scholarship in his name. The scholarship would be for deserving full-time students from Alabama who are pursuing studies in operatic singing and performance. Among many other accomplishments during Dr. Armstrong’s time at JSU, he founded the university’s Chamber Singers in 1980. The fundraising efforts have begun with two matching promises once the fund has reached $10,000 in donations.

To find out how you can help in the establishment of this scholarship or to simply donate to the fund, please contact the JSU Foundation Office at 800.231.5291, ext. 5306. Or to make a donation online, visit http://idev.jsu.edu

Dr. Rebecca O. Turner Publishes Textbook Chapter

Dr. Rebecca O. Turner Jacksonville State University’s Dr. Rebecca O. Turner, Vice President for academic and student affairs, published a chapter in a college textbook, “Child Welfare Social Work: An Introduction” (January 2006, Pearson Education), edited by Philip Popple of the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, and Francine Vecchiolla, Springfield College, Mass.

Turner’s chapter is about services to families and children with the children in substitute care. According to the book’s editors, the chapter addresses “services for children and families with problems severe enough to warrant removal of the children from the home, including temporary foster care, termination of parental rights, concurrent planning, and therapeutic foster care.”

Turner’s work includes the results of a quality assurance study of therapeutic foster care.

Turner, who became vice president for academic and student affairs on January 1, 2002, taught social work beginning in August 1981. Turner holds a doctorate and master’s degree in social work from the University of Alabama and an undergraduate degree in social work from the University of Montevallo. Prior to becoming a social work educator, Dr. Turner was a child welfare social worker for the State of Alabama during 1973 - 1981.

As Student Body Grows, So Does Campus As the Jacksonville State University student body grows, so does the campus.

While Forney Hall, an original 1883 building, sits quietly empty on the old campus near Kitty Stone Elementary, by contrast, the sound of construction and renovation can be heard throughout the newer campus. Changes are on the way.

Beginning this fall, sororities which previously occupied the second through sixth floors of Sparkman Hall will be relocated to Curtis Hall. To accommodate the need for more male beds and to address the demand for private, single accommodations, Sparkman Hall has been converted into a co-ed and continuous housing facility. In addition to gaining fresh paint, the new rooms will have wireless Internet capability.

The art department is looking forward to moving into its new building.

Not yet under construction, the new facility will be built where the old steam plant was located.

Meanwhile, Bibb Graves Hall, for the first time in its history, is now completely devoted to service as an administration building. The change occurred recently when the computer science classrooms and labs on the third floor of Bibb Graves were moved to new facilities in Ayers Hall.

After more than three years’ work, the renovation of Ayers Hall was completed in July 2005. The building now houses the Department of Mathematical, Computing and Information Sciences and the Department of Technology and Engineering. The Psychology Department also returned to Ayers after moving to temporary facilities to make way for improvements in Ayers.

For the Department of Mathematical, Computing and Information Sciences, the move marks the first time the entire program has been in one building. Previously, the department had been spread among three buildings. By consolidating the department, faculty and students have been able to simplify their schedules.

The Technology and Engineering Department had outgrown its previous location in Self Hall. Students and faculty alike now enjoy the extra space and new labs.

The University moved the three departments to Ayers Hall because of their similarities. Since the move, a student interested in computer science can take all degree specific courses at one building. In addition, the similar departments can share lab equipment.

Before a joint, $8 million renovation project by JSU and Gadsden State, Building 3181 at McClellan served as the former training center for the Army’s Military Police Corps before Ft. McClellan was shut down.

JSU drama department students and technical director David Keefer installed new rigging in the 445-seat auditorium.

The center will use the space both for JSU and GSCC functions, as well as a source for generating revenue by renting the space to local community groups and schools.

The auditorium is just a small part of what has grown out of the only consortium of its kind in the state of Alabama.

Most of the programs that moved from JSU are nontraditional services. JSU’s Office of Continuing Education moved into the second floor of the McClellan Center.

The program had been housed in Curtis Hall.

In addition, JSU’s In-service Education Center moved into the McClellan Center.

The program works with existing teachers throughout the summer, providing them with additional training.

The Institute for Emergency Preparedness had its first graduating class at the McClellan building in December.

Students can take courses in public safety communications and 911 professions from around the world in this one-of-a-kind program via the Internet. JSU’s Archeological Resource Laboratory also resides at the center.

Hosting year-round classes, the busiest part of the building is leased by the Northeast Alabama Police Academy.

Fall 2006

Dr. William Jerryl Davis Remembrance Service Held

Dr. William Jerryl Davis Jacksonville State University’s Dr. David L. Walters Department of Music held a remembrance service for the late Dr. William Jerryl Davis on June 11 in the Performance Center of Mason Hall.

Dr. Davis, who died May 10, was an associate professor of music and taught woodwinds at JSU for 31 years. The university band staff considered him to be one

of the strongest faculty supporters of the Marching Southerners, and a band member said there have been nearly 10,000 viewings of postings about Dr. Davis on their Internet discussion board in recent weeks. “He always had time to look over an arrangement, guide you through the rough spots or decisions in life, and help you fix, or maybe prevent, some of the ‘stupid errors’ we all make during our college years,” said Marching Southerners’ 1987 alumnus Alan Armstrong.

A native of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Davis was born September 15, 1945, the son of the late Harold Douglas Davis and Clina Mae (Henderson) Davis. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Hopkinsville. He was a member of the Phi Mu Alpha, the International Double Reed Society, and was the organist at Grace Episcopal Church, Anniston, Ala. He is survived by his twin brother, Douglas Darryl Davis, Hopkinsville, Ky. His educational background included the B.M. degree (1967) from Murray State University and the M.M. degree (1968), the Performer’s

Certificate in oboe (1974), and the D.M.A. degree (1977) all from the Eastman School of Music. His teachers have included David Gowans, Robert Sprenkle, Henry Schuman, and Robert Bloom.

Dr. Davis was a lecturer in music and managed the Cornell University Orchestras under Dr. Karel Husa from 1968-1973 and from 1974-1975. He served as the principal oboist for the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra (19831994), the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra (1981-1982), and the Rome, Georgia Symphony Orchestra (1975-1998).

Donations are being accepted for the Davis Memorial Double-Reed Scholarship Fund. Checks should be made payable to the JSU Foundation and contain the memo “Dr. Davis Scholarship Fund.”

Dr. Marvin Jenkins Retires With 24 Years of Service Dr. Marvin Charles Jenkins, Jacksonville State University’s Associate Vice President of Student Affairs, retired on June 30 with about 24 years of service.

“I came to JSU the first time in 1977 and served as the director of Career Planning and Placement,” said Jenkins. “The office was funded from grant resources, which ended in 1980. I left JSU and went to work for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. I returned to JSU in 1987 to the same job and job title under state funding.”

Jenkins holds a doctorate and the Master of Science degree in counseling from the University of Southern Mississippi. He earned his undergraduate degree in psychology and sociology from the University of Central Arkansas.

During his tenure at JSU, Jenkins page number

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served as the director of counseling and career services, associate professor in the College of Education and Professional Studies’ counselor education program, and as the acting associate vice president for student affairs.

“I suppose the highlight of my career has been the privilege of working with students and seeing them complete their degrees and go on to achieve their personal and professional goals,” said Jenkins. “It is always good to think I may have played some small role in their success. I treasure the many personal relationships I have developed over the years with the faculty and staff. In my opinion, I cannot think of a more pleasant and enjoyable place to work.”

In retirement Jenkins plans to return to the College of Education and Professional Studies as an adjunct professor in counseling.

Dr. Marvin Jenkins

Simmons Joins Jacksonville State Dr. Alicia Simmons has been promoted to director of Jacksonville State University’s Office of Institutional Research after serving as acting director.

“I came to JSU on June 1, 2005, hired to serve as the Assessment Coordinator,” said Simmons. “Within two weeks, Tim Smith, the former director of Institutional Research and Assessment, retired and Dr. Meehan asked me to serve as the acting director of Institutional Research and Assessment. It has been a very exciting and rewarding challenge and I’m very grateful that I was given the opportunity to serve in this capacity.”

Dr. Simmons attended JSU, majoring in sociology with minors in social work and gerontology, and graduated in 1985 as a third-generation JSU graduate.

“Although I grew up in a military family -- my Dad was a chaplain in the Army -- Jacksonville was always home base,” Simmons said. “My mom, Carolyn Finley Smith, is from Weaver, and my Dad, Thomas Reeves Smith, is from Lineville. Both of my grandmothers attended JSU when it was the Jacksonville Normal School for teachers.

My maternal grandmother, Nile Borden Finley, completed her bachelor’s degree in education at Jacksonville State Teacher’s College in 1950. My dad graduated from Jacksonville State College in 1961. JSU is a very special place to my family.”

Additionally, Dr. Simmons’ husband is also a graduate of JSU. Steve A. Simmons graduated in 1983 with a B.S. in Education, majoring in vocal music.

Simmons holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan and a Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Georgia.

She worked as a social worker with senior adults and managed child abuse prevention programs. For more than 10 years, she served as an executive in consulting firms responsible for providing management support for federal clients, developing new avenues for business, and providing train-

JSU Mourns Loss of Julia Snead Kingston

Dr. Alicia Simmons ing and technical assistance to constituents across the United States.

She also conducted research and provided evaluation services to not-for-profit and community-based organizations. She taught undergraduate and graduate courses at the University of Michigan and the University of Georgia.

Most recently, she was awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Children’s Bureau, to complete her dissertation on child welfare foster caregivers. She was selected to present at the 2004 Council on Social Work Education Annual Program Meeting and the 2004 Society for Social Work and Research conference.”

“My career has spanned more than 20 years and includes working with senior adults, serving as a consultant for Federal agencies in Washington, DC, facilitating strategic planning and leadership development initiatives for large and small organizations, and conducting research and evaluation related to child welfare, early childhood development, and community change,” Simmons said. “I guess the fact that my career has been interesting and challenging is a great accomplishment for me. I enjoy the challenge of finding innovative ways to support others.”

Mrs. Julia Snead Kingston died July 12, 2006. Mrs. Kingston was 86 years old and was born November 12, 1919, to the late Grady and Mary Towers Miller. She grew up in the Pollard’s Bend Community of Cherokee County on her mother’s family farm, which dates back to the mid 1800’s.

Mrs. Kingston attended Cherokee County High School, Blue Mountain Women`s College in Mississippi, where she studied music and drama, and Jacksonville State Teachers College, where she graduated with a degree in education.

Mrs. Kingston applied this training in her first job as a music teacher with the Cherokee County School System.

She also taught first grade at Livingston School and third grade, for many years, at Centre Elementary School, all the while participating in many professional and civic organizations.

In 1967 Dr. Houston Cole selected her to be the first director of alumni and development for Jacksonville State University. During her 15 year tenure, a strong alumni association was established, as well as the JSU Foundation. As a result of her efforts and efforts of many others, JSU Foundation still thrives today as a multimillion dollar fund-raising enterprise. Mrs. Kingston was gratified by her work while at JSU, but was most proud of her career as an educator.

Following her retirement, Mrs. Kingston and her husband Joe resided in Washington, D. C. for six years.

During that time, she worked on several legislative projects, including working with Senator Claude Pepper on Federal legislation regarding nursing home regulations and elder law.

After she and Joe relocated to her Alabama home on Weiss Lake, Mrs. Kingston remained involved in civic and community organizations, while she continued to take an active role in the Alabama Education Association.

Fall 2006

Admissions Counselors are Ready for Anything

By Farshad Makari Poor

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What do you call the red flap of skin that hangs down under a rooster’s beak?

How far is the beach from campus?

Who was Major John Pelham?

Jacksonville State University’s five admissions counselors have fielded these and many other unusual college recruitment questions as they travel the state to discuss JSU with graduating high school students and other prospective applicants. Five counselors travel while one in-house counselor runs the campus tour program.

And, chances are, college age children of JSU alumni will soon be encountering one or more of these smiling faces.

“Our travel schedule begins in midAugust and runs through early December with a prearranged travel circuit for high schools and community colleges in Alabama, Georgia, the Florida panhandle, and the Chattanooga, Tennessee area,” said Ms. Martha Mitchell, director of admissions.

“In addition to this prearranged schedule, the admissions counselors schedule private visits to their main high schools and community colleges in their territories. Private visits are conducted throughout the fall and spring.”

Prospective students today research colleges on the Internet, apply online, and e-mail questions to staff members. After meeting counselors online, high school students can eventually meet them in person at high school college or career fairs.

“Scholarship opportunities and financial aid in general are very important to today’s prospective student,” said Mitchell. “We try to make sure that information is available in our publications so students are adequately informed on how to find what we have to offer.

All JSU admissions counselors are JSU graduates, who are better equipped to share with prospective students what JSU is really all about.

The primary way of marketing JSU, is through publications. Each year the Admission Office updates its viewbooks, CDs, and brochures available to prospective students.

“Our office works with the JSU Television Services Office to produce the recruiting video and a few 30-second commercials each year. These commercials may be seen in the local market, Birmingham, or the Marshall/Dekalb/ Madison county area for a few weeks each year.

“We strive to maintain excellent relationships with counselors in high schools and provide the counselors with enough information that they are comfortable sending their graduates to JSU to continue their education.”

We host three Preview Days per year when we invite prospective students to visit campus and speak with representatives from all departments that are set up in one convenient location. They can take a tour, go to a football game with free tickets at Fall Preview Day, or actually register for classes at either Spring Preview Day.” “Our office staff works very hard to provide timely responses to inquiries and applications,” said Mitchell. It takes everyone -- faculty, staff, current students, and alumni -- working together to recruit new students.

“I feel that our satisfied students are our best recruiters ... they become alumni, then parents, then parents of current JSU students, and the circle continues.”

Introducing JSU’s student recruiters: Andy Green of Piedmont, Ala., began his work in the Admissions Office in May 2005. He is an ’05 graduate of JSU and is currently pursuing his master’s in public administration.

Describing his experiences as a recruiter, he said, “Sometimes, prospective students don’t know where Jacksonville, Ala., is. So, first of all, I must be prepared to try to introduce Jacksonville itself and to give some brief information about JSU and our special programs. I think the greatest advantage of JSU is that we provide highlevel academic programs with lower costs in comparison with other universities.”

Green recruits in Northeast Alabama and in the Mobile area. He said, “I also have the pleasure of serving Piedmont High

School, my alma mater, and five other high schools throughout Calhoun and Etowah County.

Karen Maxwell covers the Florida Panhandle and Georgia. Ms. Maxwell of Jacksonville, Ala., is a 2003 JSU graduate who received her MBA at JSU this past August. She has served as a counselor since 2003.

Ms. Maxwell said Georgia’s Hope Scholarship -- which offers free tuition to the state’s best students -- presents a challenge as she recruits in that state. “I was in Savannah a few months ago, and everyone I talked to thought JSU was in Florida so they were wanting to know about the beach. But once you tell them we’re in Alabama, they want to know about us anyway. I don’t think not being in Florida is a turn-off -- they just don’t realize we’re in Alabama.”

Ms. Maxwell’s main recruiting counties in Georgia are Baldwin, Barrow, Bartow, Bibb, Calhoun, Carroll, Catoosa, Chatham, Cherokee, Chattooga, Clayton, Cobb, Coffee, Columbia, Coweta, Dekalb, Dougherty, Douglas, Fayette, Floyd, Forsyth, Gordon, Green, Gwinnett, Hall, Haralson, Heard, Henry, Jackson, Laurens, Macon, Monroe, Morgan, Muscogee, Oconee, Paulding, Polk, Richmond, Spalding, Stephens, Sumter, Tift, Troup, Walker, Walton, and White.

A native of Florence, Ala., Meyori Brown is JSU’s newest admissions counselor.

She has worked in the admissions office since August of 2006. Brown recruits in Northwest Alabama and in the following Alabama Counties: Autauga, Bullock, Butler, Chilton, Chambers, Choctaw, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Montgomery, Perry, Russell, Sumter, and Tallapoosa..

Meyori Brown graduated from JSU in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science in management and a minor in English.

Shelley Kaler of Delta, Ala., joined the admissions office in 2005. Kaler covers the Birmingham area and Southeast Alabama.

Ms. Kaler said, “I try to cover all the basic facts about JSU with each prospective student. It is my way of telling students about our school. I even share my own experiences with them. I want to make sure that they are aware of all the possibilities at JSU.

“The best thing about JSU, I think, is that you’re not just a face in a crowd. Your advisors know you very well. If you need help in a class, the faculty can help and even assist with referrals to tutors.”

Ms. Kaler’s assigned local schools include Anniston, The Donaho School, Saks, Sacred Heart, Weaver, and Glencoe. She will be visiting about eleven Alabama counties.

Ms. Kaler graduated from JSU in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in family and consumer sciences.

JSU’s in-house admissions counselor is Tracy Phillips from Pleasant Valley (near Jacksonville).

“I coordinate campus tours for individuals and groups,” she said. “Our tours are different from those given at other universities. We give individual campus tours. We talk with people one on one. The way JSU’s campus is laid out is one of the most important things that catch people’s attention. They are impressed by how beautiful and clean the campus is and by the friendliness of everyone that they meet.

“I recruit from Pleasant Valley and Spring Garden. Basically, I help students who are interested in visiting the campus to arrange campus tours. I have three student workers who assist visitors in our office at the visitor center.”

Christan Harris Green has been an admissions counselor at Jacksonville State University since January 2005. She graduated from JSU with a Bachelor of Science in Education in December 2004.

Christan grew up in Anniston, Alabama, graduating from White Plains High School in 2001. Christan is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Education, and she serves as the Coordinator of District 8 College Fairs in the Alabama Association of College Registrars and Admissions Officers.

Christan recruits students from JSU’s local territory, including Calhoun, Cherokee, Clay, Cleburne, Etowah, Randolph, and Talladega Counties. She also works with students in Bibb, Fayette, Lamar, Pickens, Tuscaloosa, and Walker Counties.

Fall 2006

JSU Relay for Life Raises $15,000

Jacksonville State University raised $15,000 for Relay for Life this year and was the number five team in Calhoun County’s fund-raising effort.

Calhoun County’s Relay For Life, which was held May 12 at Oxford High School’s football stadium, set a fund-raising record. According to American Cancer Society development representative Lisa Haugen, the event raised more than $430,000 for cancer research -- the highest total in Calhoun County history. The amount significantly goes beyond the $280,000 goal that had been set by the Calhoun County Relay for Life Committee. Last year’s event raised $258,000.

Dr. Bill Meehan, president of Jacksonville State University, who chaired the Relay for Life Committee, said “We’re

proud of the magnificent people on the committee, excellent team captains, wonderful teams, and the community who supported this event.”

According to Dr. Meehan, Relay for Life not only is a very worthy effort that supports the fight against cancer, but it is also a time for nurturing community awareness, not to mention a lot of fun.

This year, it is estimated that more than 1,500 people will die from cancer every day, and more than 1.3 million new cases of cancer are expected to be detected in 2006.

Relay for Life, which is held annually, is a community gathering rather than an athletic event, and anyone and everyone at all levels of fitness can participate. It is a fun-filled relay event designed to celebrate survivorship and raise money for research and programs. Teams are often formed between friends, family and coworkers. “Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature activity and is the largest community fund raiser in the world,” said Mrs. Martha Mitchell, director of admissions at JSU. “It is a unique event that offers everyone in our community the opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer.”

Peer Educators Win National Recognition Jacksonville State University’s Peer Educators were honored along with organizations from six other campuses by the Bacchus Network for their outstanding impaired driving prevention program.

JSU’s Peer Educators’ “Arrive Alive” program was published by the Bacchus Network in “Along These Lines: Impaired Driving Prevention Guide.”

Jacksonville State University was recognized as a model program for their Impaired Driving Prevention program.

Only seven universities nationwide were

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recognized; their programs were listed in a news magazine and sent throughout the nation for use by other Bacchus Network Affiliates.

The Bacchus Network also recognized JSU’s Rickey Naugher, director of Counseling & Career Services, as an Outstanding Advisor in 2005.

JSU’s program was a success with more than 2,200 students signing pledge cards promising not to drink and drive.

The JSU Peer Educators are sponsored by JSU’s Counseling & Career Services Department.

Calhoun County was successful in holding the largest Relay for Life event this year in the Mid South Division of the American Cancer Society. The Mid South Division is made up of Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

JSU Closes Nursing Clinic after 25 Years The Jacksonville State University College of Nursing and Health Sciences (CNHS) has closed the Nursing Center Clinic in Wallace Hall after more than 25 years due to a federal ruling that restricts distribution of Title X Family Planning medications and supplies.

Health departments are operating as usual, but satellite clinics throughout the nation have been affected.

According to JSU’s Dr. Sarah V. Latham, dean of nursing, a recent ruling by the United States Department of Health and Human Services “disqualified” satellite clinics that are not official branches of state health departments from receiving federally funded family planning supplies and medications.

The CNHS Nursing Center Clinic functioned as a satellite of the Calhoun County Health Department, even though it was staffed by JSU employees and housed in the university. This collaborative arrangement allowed the Nursing Center Clinic to provide low or no cost health care services because family planning and immunization supplies were provided by the health department.

“Federal support, through Title X funding, provided the framework for the operation,” said Dr. Latham. “We’ve looked at every option for keeping the clinic open.

Unfortunately, just providing family planning, without federal support, would cost JSU over $100 per patient. We don’t have the infrastructure for third party billing.

“It is with regret and sadness that we announce the closing of our clinic. I am pleased, however, that the Calhoun County Health Department will continue to offer WIC services in the nursing building every Thursday.”

Jacksonville State University Introduces Banner

By Farshad Makari Poor JSU News Bureau Jacksonville State University has purchased new computer software, Banner, to replace the mainframe administrative computing system.

“It is a suite of integrated administrative software applications developed by SunGard Higher Education to support the student, financial aid, human resources and financial activities of universities,” said Randy Harper, vice president of Information Technology.

“Banner is a web-based application that provides access to a common database shared by all Banner users. This provides the capability to store important information in a single location for prospective students, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and others who have a relationship with JSU.” According to Harper, JSU’s current administrative computing system is composed of many modules that have been developed “in-house” over the past 30-35 years and reside on a mainframe computer. The system has served JSU exceptionally well, but it uses older technology for database management and self-service over the Internet. The system has become increasingly difficult to maintain and lacks features that provide convenient information sharing and efficient workflow.

“The Banner system will provide members of the JSU community with convenient and immediate access to information regarding their relationship with the university,” said Harper.

“It will insure that the administrative computing systems are up to date and that enhancements are implemented on a timely basis. It will improve services and provide students, faculty, staff and administrators with information required to make informed decisions.” Banner has some other benefits such as common database for all constituents, global access to information using a web browser, elimination of downtime required for “batch” processing at night, integration with the Blackboard elearning system, improved functionality and flexibility, improved reporting capabilities,

improved accessibility to information (24x7 access to records), online documentation, updates to meet legislative and regulatory requirements, and information sharing with other Banner universities.

“When Banner is fully implemented, members of the JSU community will interact with the software in two ways,” Harper said. “Students and faculty will access Banner through the self-service web client.

They will be able to use their web browsers to access information related to admissions, registration, class schedules, grades, program requirements, financial aid, account status, and many other university-related activities. Staff will primarily use Internet Native Banner. Internet Native Banner, like the self-service client, is accessed through a web browser, but has a different look and feel. Staff throughout the university will use this interface to conduct business and serve students.”

Luminis software from SunGard Higher Education, as said by Harper, will be implemented in parallel with the Banner system. Luminis is a web portal that will allow JSU to deliver personalized information via the web. It will allow students, faculty and staff to access announcements, news, e-mail, calendars, discussion groups and other services through a single personalized source. Luminis will serve as the entry point for Banner self-service functions.

“Banner will be replacing our administrative computing systems during the next few years,” said Harper. “The university has set an aggressive twenty four-month implementation schedule for the core Banner modules. The implementation process involves many people from offices throughout the university. The project is organized around teams responsible for functional, technical and administrative processes.

Team members are working with SunGard Higher Education application and technical specialists to analyze and tailor business processes, install, design, and configure the software, transfer current data, and provide training to the university community.”

“A great deal of hard work by many people will be required to complete the Banner implementation project. It is hard

to imagine an environment that is better than the current environment at JSU, but the final result of the Banner project will be an even better place to study, learn, teach, work, and conduct business.” Harper said.

Dr. Mike Malone Joins JSU Dr. Michael E. “Mike” Malone, a former university president who served as executive director of the Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE) for the past four years, joined Jacksonville State University’s College of Education and Professional Studies on July 1.

Dr. Malone, executive director of ACHE from July 2002 through July 2006, serves as Visiting Professor and Administrator in Residence. He is teaching and providing consultation in the Department of Educational Resources in the area of Educational Administration and Leadership.

Dr. Cynthia Harper, dean of education, said, “During his career in the education field, Dr. Malone has served in the secondary classroom and all the way up to the highest administrative roles in institutions of higher learning in Virginia, North Carolina and Alabama. Dr. Malone’s experience and expertise will greatly strengthen JSU’s already outstanding education program by exposing students to a leader in the field.”

Dr. Malone earned a Ph.D. from the University of Alabama in 1976 in the behavioral studies area (student personnel services in higher education).

He also holds two master’s degrees: the M.A.Ed. in guidance/counseling, which he earned in 1972 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the M.A. in humanities from Old Dominion University in 1991. He earned the B.A. cum laude in history at the University of Montevallo in 1969. He also attended the Birmingham School of Law from 1970-71.

Fall 2006

Dr. Francia Selected as Fulbright Scholar

Jacksonville State University adds yet another Fulbright scholar to its growing list. JSU’s Dr. Guillermo Francia III, professor of computer science, has been selected as a Fulbright scholar grantee to the Mediterranean island nation of Malta during the academic year 2006-2007.

As a Fulbright, Dr. Francia joins the ranks of distinguished Fulbright alumni who have, in one way or another, promoted and enriched the educational, political, economic, and social experiences of people around the world.

Dr. Francia’s scholarship award mostly involves a lecture series to be given at the Malta College of Arts, Sciences, and Technology. The lecture series topics included computer network, user interface design and development, computer security, and digital forensics. In addition to lecturing, Dr. Francia will also assist in developing curriculum for the four year old school.

“The Fulbright program is relatively new at the [Malta] school, as I have been informed by the program director,” he said.

Francia began the lengthy application process in the summer of 2005. After an initial screening by the Fulbright scholarship

Books for Bagdad

“On behalf of the president of the University of Baghdad and myself, I am writing to thank you and all the people in your campus, faculty, students and staff who helped Prof.

Safaa Al-Hamadani (Professor of Biology in the Biology Department) in collecting books and then shipping them to Baghdad.

“We are sure that without the support of Jacksonville State University, this monumental task would not have been accomplished.

“God bless for all those who are friends to Iraq and its people.

Your Faithfully Prof. Dr. Hatim Jabar Vice president of the Baghdad University for Scientific Affairs

Dr. Safaa Al-Hamdani prepares books to ship to Bagdad.

Dr. Al-Hamdani expressed thanks to the maintenance crew at JSU. He says the crew came with a load of enthusiasm and positive attitude to work in the heat at Martin Hall to load the books.

Dr. Al-Hamdani said, “Without help from the wonderful people that we have on campus -- faculty, students and staff -- we would not have been able to accomplish this monumental task.

Dr. Al-Hamdani was interviewed by an ABC News crew for a special report to air in the future on World News Tonight.

Jacksonville State University’s Dr. Safaa Al-Hamdani reports that nearly 19,000 textbooks and a large number of scientific journals were collected during the 2005-06 academic year, packaged for shipment in two shipping crates, and sent to Baghdad University on June 29.

Dr. Al-Hamdani recently received the following letter from Baghdad University in connection with his second recently-completed book drive:

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board in Washington D.C., the selected groups’ applications are sent to the country to which they applied. The grantees are then selected by the hosting country selection committee.

Francia wrote in his project statement, “It is my strong belief that this experience would not only enhance my understanding of other cultures, but would also showcase the United States’ image of embracing and promoting cultural diversity by sending an immigrant as an ambassador of learning and goodwill to a European country.”

According to President William A. Meehan, “JSU has possibly had more Fulbright scholars than any other regional university of its size.” Operating in 144 countries, the Fulbright is considered one of the world’s most prestigious academic awards programs. More Fulbright alumni have won Nobel Prizes than those of any other academic program.

Dr. Al-Hamdani is an Iraq native and 1977 graduate of Baghdad University.

Books for Baghdad has expanded to many other states, and now there are several chapters including one in Connecticut; Boston, Massachusetts; Rochester, New York; and Canada.

“We have established a very good relationship with the International Relief and Development Agency out of Arlington, Virginia,” Dr. Al-Hamdani said. This organization has donated the shipping responsibility, and they are going to deliver the donated books and computers to Baghdad University.”

“Books for Baghdad has accomplished more than what it initially was intended to accomplish,” Dr. Al-Hamdani said. “This project brought different members of JSU faculty and students together and has shown what JSU is all about.

“I have been receiving numerous emails from Baghdad University thanking us for our generosity for helping them improve their education during this difficult time.”

For more information about the Books for Baghdad project, call Dr. Safaa Al-Hamdani at (256) 782-5801 or e-mail him at sah@jsu.edu

News

Jim Coxwell Appointed as Trustee

Mr. James L. “Jim” Coxwell The newest member of Jacksonville State University’s Board of Trustees is James L. “Jim” Coxwell, Sr., of Anniston, a banker, real estate investor, and entrepreneur who brings more than 35 years of business expertise to the board.

Gov. Bob Riley appointed, and the Alabama Senate confirmed, Coxwell on Thursday, March 30. He will replace Bobby N. Kennamer of Anniston, whose term expired.

“Mr. Coxwell’s extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of the university will make him an important asset to our board. We are pleased he’s joining us,” said JSU President William A. Meehan.

Reacting to news of his appointment, Coxwell said, “I’m very honored to be asked to serve as a trustee, and I do not take this appointment lightly. There are many things our university needs, and Dr. Meehan and I think alike -- we want JSU to be the best school in the state of Alabama.”

Coxwell, owner of Long Leaf Lodge at McClellan and other businesses in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, serves on the finance committee of the JSU Foundation, on which he has served as a board member since the early 1990s.

A longtime supporter of numerous programs at JSU, Coxwell helped revive the university football team’s J Club, which raises money to support the football program. Coxwell is past president of the club and is now a director. The university established the Coxwell Room, at the field house, in his honor.

Born in Naples, Fla., but reared in Lafayette, Ga., Coxwell graduated from Lafayette High School in 1959 and attended the University of Alabama on a football scholarship. He later transferred to JSU, where he attended until 1963.

Coxwell went on to launch a number of businesses in Georgia, including two GMC dealerships that he operated for 13 years in Augusta and Marietta. He also owned a John Deere dealership for 14 years in Kennesaw, Ga., and Eagle Golf Course in Douglasville. He owns Mountain Brook Village, a retirement/assisted living facility in Sevierville, Tenn.

Coxwell served as a founder of Commercial Exchange Bank in Kennesaw, Ga., in 1982. Through a series of mergers, that bank eventually became Premier Bank with more than $2 billion in assets.

Premier was sold to BB&T. Coxwell served on loan committees and bank boards for 24 years. Coxwell also founded Highland Commercial Bank of Marietta, where he continues to serve on the board of directors.

Coxwell served as budget officer for Georgia’s Department of Agriculture for three years. He also has experience in building commercial and residential buildings.

Coxwell’s numerous civic involvements include membership in the Rotary Club and serving as vice president of the Lions Club.

He is past president of the GMC Dealers Association. He also serves as treasurer of the Kennesaw United Methodist Church.

Coxwell and his wife, Sandra, live on Anniston’s historic Buckner Circle, where he is president of the Buckner Circle Home Owners Association.

Outstanding JSU Alumni of Year Nominations We are searching for JSU’s most outstanding alumni to be nominated for the National Alumni Association’s Alumni of the Year awards. To be selected, an alum must be nominated by a fellow classmate, friend, or family member. A nomination form can be obtained from the alumni affairs office. A committee, made up of members of JSU’s Alumni Board of Governors, reviews each nomination and selects the most deserving candidate. Recommendation letters are strongly encouraged as well as a current bio and/or resume.

JSU has many alumni worthy of this honor and recognition but remember, alumni can’t be selected if they aren’t nominated by someone!

Contact the alumni office today to nominate someone for the 2007 Alumni of the Year awards.

Fall 2006

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News JSU Vying for 100 Percent Accreditation in Secondary Education (6-12) in English/ Professional Programs • BS EdLanguage Arts Jacksonville State University — which is accredited at the institutional level by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) — has achieved professional accreditation in 29 of its 36 academic programs for which accreditation is available.

An additional 10 programs are in fields in which professional accreditation is not yet offered.

JSU’s 83 percent accreditation rate is an additional stamp of approval — recognition beyond SACS accreditation — from national organizations that focus on specific degree programs.

Dr. Alicia Simmons, Director of Institutional Research and Assessment, reported that 93 percent of JSU’s new students reported that academic reputation was an important or very important factor in choosing JSU and that their decision was based on specific majors offered at JSU. Since JSU has the greatest number and the highest percentage of accredited programs among Alabama’s regional universities, these students are making solid academic-based decisions.

JSU is planning a campuswide program review in the near future that will measure the quality and effectiveness of academic programs. The review may further aid programs that are applying for accreditation.

JSU’s accredited programs, by college: College of Arts and Sciences • BA Art/BFA Art • BS Computer Science • BS Computer Information Science • BA Drama • BA Music/MA Music • BSW Social Work College of Commerce and Business Administration • BS Accounting • BS Finance • BS Economics • BS Management • BS Marketing • MBA Business Administration College of Education and Professional Studies • BS Ed Elementary Education • BS Ed Early Childhood Education • BS Ed Collaborative Teacher Elementary Education • BS Ed Collaborative Teacher Secondary Education • BS Ed Secondary Education (6-12) in Biology • BS Ed Secondary Education (6-12) in General Science • BS Ed Secondary Education (6-12) in Business Ed

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• BS Ed Secondary Education (6-12) in English • BS Ed Secondary Education (6-12) in Family & Consumer Science • BS Ed Secondary Education (6-12) in Spanish • BS Ed Secondary Education (6-12) in Mathematics • BS Ed Secondary Education (6-12) in Technology Education • BS Ed Secondary Education (P-12) in French • BS Ed Secondary Education (P-12) in Music (Instrumental) • BS Ed Secondary Education (P-12) in Music (Choral) • BS Ed Secondary Education (P-12) in Physical Education • BS Ed Secondary Education (P-12) in Spanish • BS Ed Secondary Education • BS Ed Special Education • BS Ed Physical Education • BS Exercise and Wellness • BS Electronics Technology • BS Family and Consumer Sciences • BS Occupational Safety and Health • BS Technology • BS Computer Integrated Manufacturing Systems Technology • MS Ed Special Education • MS Ed Collaborative Teacher Secondary Ed (6-12) • MS Ed Educational Administration • MS Ed Elementary Education • MS Ed Instructional Media • MS Ed Secondary Education • MS Ed Early Childhood Education • MS Ed Reading Specialist • MS Ed Physical Education • EdS General Education • EdS Educational Administration College of Nursing and Health Sciences • BS Nursing • MS Nursing

• BA/MA History • BS/BA/MS Biology • BS/BA Chemistry • BA Foreign Languages • BS/BA/MS Psychology • BA/MA English • BS Criminal Justice Studies • BA/MA Liberal Studies • MS Criminal Justice •MS Computer Systems and Software Design • BS/MS Emergency Management • BS/BA Geography • BA Political Science • BS/BA Sociology • MS Manufacturing Systems Technology JSU’s Programs Seeking Accreditation • BA Communication • BS Recreation • MPA Public Administration • MS Counselor Education JSU’s Accrediting Agencies: • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools • Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET • National Association of Schools of Art and Design • National Association of Schools of Music • National Association of Schools of Theatre • Council on Social Work Education • The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business • National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education • Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education • National Association of Industrial Technology • Alabama State Department of Education • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education • Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc.

Programs Offered By JSU That Have No Accrediting Agencies • BS/BA/MS Mathematics

JSU Online is designed to create a distinctive portal for one-stop shopping for students seeking online degrees or certification. The information that individuals will need as online students will be provided at one convenient, easily accessible location.

JSU Online currently lists 9 complete programs: •BS in Emergency Management •BS in Nursing (For RN’s only through STEP program) •MS Emergency Management •MS Nursing •MSED in Physical Education •MPA with a Concentration in Emergency management •MPA with a Concentration in Spatial Analysis and Mgt. •Certificate in Emergency Management •Certificate in Geographic Information Systems Two more complete online programs are projected for the Fall Semester, 2006: BA Liberal/General Studies MBA General

The JSU Online web will provide information such as the following: the listing of required program or certificate courses, an overview of estimated time to program completion, estimated costs, links to pages describing courses, sample syllabi, descriptions of life as an online student, faculty profiles, the library and advising resources, the University’s learning management system

(Blackboard), and online student registration.

For additional information, please visit our Office of Distance Learning Website, http://distance.jsu.edu/ or contact the Office of Distance Education, DLInfo@jsu.edu or (256) 782-8172

News Where the Need is Greatest: The Annual Fund Over 60% of the gifts received in the Annual Fund are $25 or less. Every dollar goes to good use and is much appreciated.

So this fall, when that phone call or letter comes, please consider a gift to support JSU’s programs and students. Remember, Jacksonville State University receives less than 50 percent of its total operating budget

from the State of Alabama. That makes Jacksonville State a “state assisted” institution rather than a state supported. The margin of excellence for all universities is being gained only through the generous contributions and deferred gifts of alumni, corporations, private foundations, businesses, and friends—and this will be increasingly true for JSU in the years ahead. So rest assured that you gift DOES make a difference!

AMSTI JSU Serves Area Math & Science Teachers Every fall, JSU calls our alumni to say hello from Jacksonville and ask to verify their contact information. This call is also an opportunity for our alumni to make a financial contribution to the school. Many alumni give back to the departments from which they graduated, and still others like to give back to the scholarship program that they themselves benefited from while at JSU. Another area that alumni frequently mention is “to put the money where the need is greatest.” All of these funds are accumulated in the Annual Fund. Each year the Annual Fund is able to financially support projects on campus that otherwise may be not be funded. In 2005, the contributions were divided among three projects: the Opal Lovett negative restoration project, the wireless technology project to make the Houston Cole Library 100% wireless capable, and mostly to the refurbishment of the Stone Center Theatre.

The Stone Center Theatre was in much need of refurbishment. “The theatre seats are more than thirty years old, so we are deeply grateful for the generous contributions to the annual fund that made replacing the time worn seats possible,” said Dr. Rebecca Turner, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. The gifts to the Annual Fund were used to help acquire new curtains and seating valued at over $50,000.

“We hope the use of the funds for such a public place will reflect the respect JSU has for its donors and alumni,” said Ms. Melanie Delap, Exec. Director, JSU Foundation, Inc. At least 11,000 people will use the auditorium annually for performances ranging from plays to operas to special commemoration events.

Jacksonville State University’s Alabama Mathematics Science Technology Initiative (AMSTI) was established this year with a $383,100 planning grant for fiscal year 2007.

JSU received the funds in October 2005, and will receive an additional $1,250,000 in October 2006, according to Dr. William D. Carr, dean of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education, the project’s principal investigator.

AMSTI provides three basic services to math and science teachers: • professional development • equipment and materials • on-site support to teachers from JSU faculty and AMSTI-trained professional educators The project serves the 15 school systems in the JSU In-Service Education Center service area.

JSU departments collaborating on the project include the College of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education, College of Education and Professional Studies, College of Arts and Sciences, the In-Service Education Center, Alabama Science in Motion, and the Little River Canyon Field School.

Partners for AMSTI JSU are the JSU College of Education and Professional Studies, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education, the In-Service Education Center, Alabama Science in Motion at JSU, Alabama Technology in Motion at JSU, and all fifteen school systems in the JSU service area. Providing additional expertise and assistance are the Smithsonian accredited Anniston

Museum of Natural History, the Anniston Army Depot, Honda Alabama, Westinghouse Anniston, Acker Electric and other businesses and industries which employ scientists, engineers, and people who use mathematics as an essential part of their work.

When fully implemented, AMSTI JSU will serve approximately 4,000 teachers and more than 58,000 students in the JSU service area. The AMSTI record for improving student learning and student achievement is impressive. In recent evaluations, students whose teachers were trained in the AMSTI program scored significantly higher on student achievement tests than those without the AMSTI program in their school. The superintendents of the fifteen school systems in the JSU service area, enthusiastically support this program. More importantly, the teachers and principals of the individual schools have demonstrated their interest and willingness to participate in the summer institutes.

An Alabama Department of Education press release said, “Studies show AMSTI makes a significant difference in increasing student achievement as measured by standardized tests in math and science.

Although AMSTI focuses on math and science, test data indicate its beneficial effects spill over into reading and language.

AMSTI also increases dramatically both student and teacher interest and excitement for math and science. AMSTI has a proven track record for helping students develop the math and science skills and knowledge necessary for success in the workforce and postsecondary studies.

For more information, contact Tania Ray Barnes at (256) 782-8267.

Fall Spring 2006 2006 13

News Paying for College: Sticker Shock

By Farshad Makari Poor Although Jacksonville State University’s tuition and fees have remained lower than those charged by most other universities in the state and nation, there’s no question that going to school was a lot cheaper back in the “good ole days” when even textbooks seemed like an incidental expense. Nowadays, a slim volume for a genetics course can fetch better than $75 while textbooks covering a full load can easily exceed $600.

JSU has made every effort to keep tuition and fees at the lowest possible amount, but modest annual increases have added up over the years. As of this fall, a year of school at JSU, including living expenses, will cost about $8,813 (or a lot more, depending on off-campus housing and other choices). An extraordinarily frugal student who manages his or her money perfectly -- eschewing absolutely all frivolity, including movies and other entertainment pleasures -- will find that a four-year degree at JSU will run about $35,000. And this doesn’t count important extras, such as the cost of financing a car, including insurance, or buying clothing.

Even so, administrators say JSU is the best educational bargain in the country -- the sticker price for a JSU degree is as good as it gets when comparing accredited universities with a reputation for quality.

The chart below compares JSU’s current costs with those charged 10 years ago.

The information accomplishes two things: alumni can “remember when” their scarce financial resources went a lot further, and it

shows how well JSU has managed to keep costs at the lowest level, considering the increase in other goods and services over the same period.

Although university officials say there’s no way to make an exact comparison of costs over the years, the chart simply gives a fuzzy snapshot of the rise in price over time, unadjusted for inflation and other factors.

According to the information compiled here, JSU’s expenses have increased more than 100% over 10 years. For students living off campus, a major area of cost expansion is transportation.

And, according to Martin Weldon of JSU’s financial aid office, “The largest areas of increased cost are proportional to the rise in the cost of living.” He points out that while the board of trustees can control tuition, “the cost of books and other fees are outside of their control.”

In addition to lower tuition costs, Weldon points to another advantage at JSU: “the cost of living in Jacksonville is cheaper than in other college towns.”

Most students offset the true cost of a degree with financial aid. “At JSU, approximately, 80% of our students receive some type of aid in the form of grants, loans, or scholarships,” Weldon said. “About 5% of students have jobs through university aid or federal work study programs. Students also hold part-time jobs in the community and avail themselves of the cooperative education program. There are about 300 graduate students who hold graduate assistant positions.

The bottom line: although tuition and fees have increased dramatically in ten years, JSU remains one of the best educational bargains.

Estimated Cost of Attendance 2006–2007 Academic Year 1996–1997 Academic Year Tuition/Fees

$5,408*

$970 (12-16 hours)

Books

$500

$300

Housing Halls

$810 - $1,200

$460- $690

Food (14 meals per Week)

$895

$675

Transportation

$1,332 - $2,178

Approximately $550 - $1,200

Total

$8,945 - $10,181

$2,955 - $3,835

* 16 hours

JSU Ends “Smorgasbord” Approach to Tuition Paying one price for “all you can eat” may work well in a restaurant, but it’s a terrible idea when it comes to paying college tuition. That’s why Jacksonville State University is changing the way it calculates undergraduate tuition beginning this fall.

Formerly, students paid a set fee for a “full load,” which ranged from 12 to 16 semester hours. Many students ended up with more on their plates than they could handle -- and soon dropped the unwanted courses. The practice cost students unnecessary time and steps, and JSU found it expensive to hire faculty to teach courses students dropped.

Effective with the fall semester, the 12 to 16 credit hour “smorgasbord” will give way to a more logical plan that should motivate students to plan ahead more carefully. Under the new system, students will pay tuition based on the number of credit hours taken each semester.

The new plan gives students an incentive to decide carefully which courses they will take. This will help students save time. Academic advisors and others are available to help students make wise decisions during registration.

Under the new plan, in-state tuition for undergraduates will be calculated by multiplying each student’s number of credit hours by $169 per credit hour. For example, tuition due for in-state undergraduates who register for 12 semester hours this fall will be $2,028. Sixteen hours will cost $2,704.

Out-of-state tuition will be calculated by multiplying $338 per hour by the number of credit hours taken.

Out-of-state tuition for 12 hours will cost $4056; 16 hours will cost $5,408.

The new tuition calculation will affect undergraduate students only.

Graduate students began paying for every hour attempted this past fall.

HOMECOMING 2006 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21 JSU VS. TENNESSEE STATE 2:30 PM

HOMECOMING WEEK SCHEDULE October 4 October 12 October 19 October 20

Homecoming pageant Homecoming court elections Queen elections/Bonfire & Pep rally Alumni reunions (ROTC alumni, Class of 1956, Criminal Justice Alumni, Omega Psi Phi Alumni, 60’s group, Black alumni chapter, International House Alumni)

October 21

Homecoming Day!

9:00 am - 1:30 pm

9:15 am - 10:45 am

9:30 am - 10:30 am

11:00 am

12:00 - 1:00 pm

12:00 - 2:00 pm

2:30 pm

Halftime

Postgame

Alumni house open Communication Department Brunch Natl. Alumni Assoc. Bd. Of Gov. Mtg. Homecoming parade Open Houses (Including the President’s home) Listing of open houses on page 17 Homecoming cookout Gamecock Field $9 adults/$5 children 10 and under Kickoff Alumni of Year award presentations Homecoming Queen and her court Full presentation of Southerners/Ballerinas Black alumni chapter/Omega Psi Phi Alumni party

GO GAMECOCKS!

October 20 &

See you at HOMECOMING! 60’s Group annual homecoming reunion Friday, October 20 5:30 pm Dinner at Remington Hall at McClellan $30 per couple/$15 individual Dance after the dinner

Class of 1956 50th Year Reunion Celebration Friday, October 20 6:30 pm 11th Floor of Houston Cole Library

**To make reservations for reunions, contact the Alumni Affairs office unless otherwise specified alumni@jsu.edu or 800-231-5291, ext. 5404

ROTC Annual Alumni Reunion Friday, October 20 6:00 pm Gamecock Center

Criminal Justice Alumni Reception Friday, October 20 6:30 pm 12th Floor of Houston Cole Library

Omega Psi Phi Alumni Dinner Friday, October 20 6:30 pm 11th Floor of Houston Cole Library

International House Alumni Cocktail Party Friday, October 20 International House-Stewart Memorial Room

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Black Alumni Chapter reunion Saturday, October 21 Pre game tailgate at stadium Post game dinner

Game tickets can be purchased through the JSU athletic ticket office at 256-782-8499.

21 JSU Alumni of the Year goes to...

LTC Tim Sullivan ‘88, Military Alumnus of the Year

LTC Mark Sullivan ‘88, Military Alumnus of the Year

Dr. Rodney Friery , Outstanding JSU Faculty Member

LTC Tim Sullivan graduated with a BS in Forensic Science.

He currently is in command of the 13th Corps Support Battalion at Fort Benning, GA.

LTC Mark Sullivan graduated with a BS in Marketing. He is the Institutional Training Officer for the Directorate of Training, United States Army Infantry Center at Fort Benning, GA.

Dr. Friery, Jacksonville, AL is a professor of Sociology at JSU in the department of Sociology and Social work.

Kel Kelly ‘70, Alumnus of the Year

Leah Bumpious Junkins ‘85, Alumna of the Year

Christopher D. Glover ‘98, Young Alum of the Year

Mr. Kelley, of Douglasville, GA, graduated with a BS in music education and is a former southerner. He is the founder of Tripleheart.org (a heart transplant patient support/resource center)

Ms. Junkins is President and CEO for Retail Banking over Alabama and Georgia for Colonial Bank. She was an Alpha Xi Delta while at JSU.

Mr. Glover practices law with the law firm of Hollis & Wright, P.C. in Birmingham. While a student, Glover was SGA president and a member of the Delta Chi fraternity.

Visit our open houses!

Saturday, October 21

12:00-1:00 pm Open houses will include light refreshments and tours of facilities • Dr. and Mrs. Meehan’s home • Alumni house (open from 9:00 - 2:00 pm) • Development Services—The Rock House • The College of Nursing —Wallace Hall • Math and Computer Science—255 Ayers Hall (MCIS Alumni…visit http://mcis.jsu.edu/alumni.html) • Office of Distance Education • The International House

• The Department of Sociology and Social Work • The College of Education and Professional Studies —Ramona Wood • ROTC —Rowe Hall • Criminal Justice Department —Brewer Hall • Houston Cole Library —12th Floor, Observation Deck And many more...

Bring the family and join us on Gamecock Field for food, fun, and entertainment from noon until 2:00 pm: Picnic, music, clowns, Ronald McDonald and Friends, moon bounce, blood drive (sponsored by Omega Psi Phi Alumni), balloons, and much more!

Fall 2006

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JSU Alumni and Friends Converge on Paris to Celebrate the Alumni from across the globe reunited in Paris, France on July 7 & 8 to reminisce and reunite with fellow classmates.

The reunion was attended by 145 alumni, friends and family of the International House Program.

Thanks to our gracious reunion chairpersons...This reunion would have never happened without all your help and patience! We thank you for all the time and effort you put into helping us plan this event and because of you, it was a huge success!

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IHP’S 60th Anniversary

Are you ready for the next one?

Thanks to Tahir (1975-1977) and Jasmine Ansari (1976-1978), we will be hosting the next big reunion in Orlando in 2008. Please keep the alumni office updated with any address or email changes so we can provide you with the reunion information as the planning begins.

Saturday, October 21, 2006 JSU Homecoming at the International House 8:30 am - Continental Breakfast in the House ($10/per person) October 20-22, 2006 11:00 am – Homecoming Parade Join us for an informal International House Reunion & Join in 2:30 pm - Homecoming Game ($15.00 reserved seats) the JSU Homecoming Festivities After-Game Tail Gate Party & B-B-Q (price TBA) Continue the 60th Anniversary of International House Program & share the Paris Reunion experiences with those Alums that were unable to participate.

Sunday, October 22, 2006 10:00 am - Farewell Brunch, The Victoria Inn, Anniston ($20/per person)

Festivities planned include: Friday, October 20, 2006 1:00 pm - Golf Game/Tennis – for those early arrivals ($26 green fee) 6:00 pm - Cocktail Party @ the IH – Stewart Memorial Rm. ($20/per person)

Hope to see y’all there!

For more information or help with the planning, please contact Cherie Schneider at gscanne@alltel.net , Hedily Schmidt Wendover at hwendover@patmedia.net, Kim Allen Green at kgreene@knology.net , or Dr. Ketterer at ketterer@jsu.edu

“Special thanks to Karine Droulers Parker ’02 for the design of the IHP 60th anniversary reunion logo” Fall 2006

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Do Men and Women Deal with Advice Differently?

By Farshad Makari Poor JSU News Bureau Do men and women deal with advice differently? Are women more sensitive than men about advice? Do men and women have different definitions of advice?

“There are some indications that men and women do deal with advice differently. ‘Why’ is a lot more difficult to answer than ‘how,’” said Dr. Tina Deshotels, Jacksonville State University assistant professor of sociology.

“Why, we’re not sure. We do know from cross-cultural comparisons of communication in general and advice taking/giving in general that the answer cannot be biological differences in men and women because there are too many differences between women and men and across cultures. By that, I mean there is more cross cultural variation in communication than there is sex variation.”

In general, according to Deshotels, men are less likely to seek advice than are women and tend to view getting advice as a sign of weakness. Women do not have an emotional attachment to advice and are often unaware that men define it this way.

Some problems that arise from this are that men may feel insulted by women offering advice or the perception that men may be trying to insult women by offering them advice, Deshotels said. In either case, women are not as conscious of this dynamic.

“I think men generally don’t like to take advice, for the same reason they don’t like to ask for directions. It makes them look weak or inadequate,” said Robert Klein, an instructor in JSU’s English Language Institute. “Women seem to be more open-minded. I don’t know if it’s for cultural or biological reasons, but women seem to be consensus seekers, whereas men seem to be solitary path seekers.”

Advice, even constructive criticism, is difficult to receive because it implies we are not perfect, that we can do better and so on.

“Usually, men have problems accepting advice at the workplace -- from men and especially from women -- because in their eyes, it does imply weakness or incompetence, which is antithetical to masculinity,” said Deshotels. “However, men tend to be more accepting of advice and even seek it out about matters of childcare and other supposedly ‘feminine’ things.”

Eddie Burkhalter of Kennesaw, Ga., a junior English major, said, “I think a lot of guys don’t take kindly to advice from others. We nod our heads and maybe pretend to listen, but oftentimes we think we

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know more than the person giving the advice. Most likely, we do this because we are men. We are supposed to have the answers. We are supposed to fix problems on our own, and if we can’t, then we secretly feel weak because of it.”

In our culture, said Burkhalter, men are under stress to conform to some fairly inflexible definitions of what it means to be a man. One of the key definitions is toughness.

“Usually men are so driven by their ego and pride,” said Allison D. Land, vice president of the SGA ‘s organizational affairs. “Men, as a whole, are viewed to be the providers and the ‘stronger’ sex. When they can’t live up to that, they tend to feel useless, loss of worth.”

As stated by Land, women are more likely to solicit as many suggestions as possible because they are “communicators.” “It might not be that men aren’t coming up with suggestions; they just aren’t saying them,” she said.

According to Deshotels, women are more likely to seek advice than are men about all matters, even areas where they are supposed to be ‘the expert’ -- as with child care. Women do not generally see advice -- getting or seeking -- as a sign of weakness as men do.

What is the best approach to dealing with advice, regardless of gender? Perhaps the best solutions are to follow the Golden Rule and to exude magnanimity.

“Step one [of the solution] would be to give ourselves a break.

It’s okay to not be perfect,” said Deshotels. “Step two would be to not be defensive but rather be open to hearing where we can improve. Letting the advice giver know that we are concerned with improvement is important, and we can ask specifically about that.

For example, what can I do to improve, or avoid this error, etc. If we’ve made an error that has caused harm, loosely defined, the best solution is to apologize to the person(s) we’ve harmed and to ask that person how to improve, unless asking does more harm.”

As stated by Deshotels, working toward using advice in a productive way is always a challenge. The most productive response would be to garner what is useful -- what can be used to improve -- and ditch the rest. This is often difficult, especially if the advice is not given in a particularly sensitive way.

“Sometimes people give advice because they misunderstand something we’re doing or something we’ve said,” said Deshotels. “In that case, it is not necessary to take the advice but perhaps to rephrase our statements/actions. Which advice to take and which to ditch is always a tough call, though, and my advice would be to seek advice from others who are in similar circumstances.”

According to Klein, “You can’t judge advice based on who’s giving it.

That leads to prejudice. All advice should be taken with a grain of salt, weighed carefully, and then accepted or rejected based solely on applicability and merit.”

Fall 2006

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Giving Back: Jennifer Carmichael Lectures

By Eddie Burkhalter

Standing in front of a room filled to capacity with students, the 2004 outstanding alumni of the year, Jennifer Carmichael, spoke to Dr. Rick Davis’ police administration class about the process of applying for federal jobs.

Mrs. Carmichael is the assistant inspector general for inspections in the Defense Intelligence Agency’s Office of Inspector General.

Hearing her speak, you would never know that as a student at Jacksonville State University, Carmichael never dreamed she would hold such an important position.

“Back then, I never imagined that I would have an opportunity to contribute and be

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a part of an organization that has this kind of breadth,” Carmichael said. “If someone would have told me at twenty years old that I would be working at a logistics operation in a leadership role, I would have said how is that possible.”

Mrs. Carmichael holds three degrees from JSU: two bachelor’s degrees in forensic science and law enforcement, both of which she earned in 1982 from JSU; and a master’s degree in criminal justice, which she earned in 1987. She also holds a master’s degree from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, National Defense University in Washington, D.C., and is a 2004 graduate of the Program for Senior Managers in

Government at the JFK School of Government at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Speaking to the students, Carmichael made it clear that dreams are important.

“Have a sense of what your dream is and what you want, and then you can chart out the path to get you there,” she said.

As a student at JSU, Mrs. Carmichael worked in several positions throughout the campus. “I worked in dorm security, radio dispatch work, and campus police, so don’t be afraid of the stepping stones that will build the experience you need for later, because all of that really does build your character.”

Not only is she responsible for the two dozen people who work for her, she is also the mother of three. She and her husband, Scott, have three sons, Andrew (17), Jesse (10), and Jason (8).

“You can’t gauge it by ‘at twenty I have to be here’ or ‘by thirty I must be here’; it has to be about pursuing the opportunities that will come along, and letting each step lead you there even if it’s not a direct step.”

She told the students that there might be times when they will find themselves in a position where they might have to listen more than speak, a time she calls living life in a season.

“You might be in a season where it’s your time to learn; later you get more responsibility, so it’s a season where you can contribute at a different place, or you’re in a situation where you aren’t where you want to be and you’re having trouble moving to a different job. It’s a season and you’ll move through it.”

Her message was simple: Don’t become discouraged. “Usually, it is in that period that you’re actually building the kind of character that means you’ll be a good employee when you have an opportunity to contribute somewhere else.”

Working in a field where men were once the majority, perseverance is something Mrs. Carmichael knows about. However, she made it clear to the class that being a woman doesn’t mean there are no opportunities.

“My experience has been that opportunities are there for women, but the women who excel at higher levels have generally had to work incredibly hard and be incredibly competent to be recognized.”

She went on to say that her organization has its first female deputy director. Instead of focusing on gender, Mrs. Carmichael encouraged the students to look at other aspects of themselves. “It depends very much on the individual. If you make the best of where you are and you do good work, regardless of whether you are a man or woman, I believe the opportunity is there for you. Maybe not on your time, but it will come.”

She credits JSU faculty for helping her at the beginning of her career. “The staff here at JSU actually made a big difference too. Tom Barker was in charge at the time, and he truly was committed to helping us all get to where we had a dream of going.”

When asked about some of the highlights of her career, she paused and thought for a moment. “I worked some protective service details for some senior foreign officers and dignitaries. In the mid-eighties I worked a pretty big case, the Walker-Whitworth espionage case, but most of the things I’ve done have been interesting and you could feel like you’ve made a difference, and that really is the highlight -- trying to make a difference every day.”

She was quick to recognize the importance of helping others. “The position I’m in now is a leadership position, so my success comes when others succeed. It isn’t me. It’s about helping to see others succeed.”

After fielding several questions from eager students, she gave them a bit of advice.

“I would say, apply yourself. You have to believe strongly enough that you will not allow a temporary setback to leave you feeling that you can’t do it.”

Mrs. Carmichael has worked as a counterintelligence analyst, a policy staff officer, and an investigator. She received several awards for service within the DIA, including the Award for Meritorious Civilian Service and the 2003 Agency Team Award. She is from Blairsville, Georgia, and now lives in Crofton, Maryland.

While at JSU, Mrs. Carmichael was a member of the Southerners, the Baptist Campus Ministry, and she launched a national criminal justice society in the College of Criminal Justice.

Select Students Interviewed by JSU Alumni Professionals In 2004, Jacksonville State University graduates Jim Epik ’83/’87 and Steven Botello ’81 created the Criminal Justice Alumni Chapter. Since then, Jim and Steve have also created the Professional Mock Interview Program. The purpose of this program is to allow current JSU students to experience a professional interview before graduation. The mock interview has an immediate and direct positive effect on the students.

In October 2005 and February 2006, the JSU Criminal Justice Department and Alumni Affairs provided the opportunity for the students to interview with Alumni volunteers. The interview panel was composed of professional Criminal Justice alumni, who volunteered their personal and professional time to return to their alma mater. This experience was very beneficial for the student volunteers.

To increase the stress level, the student volunteer was interviewed in front of his/ her peers and videotaped for self-evaluation purposes. By using the limited resources available, volunteers were able to achieve a significant amount of developmental pressure on the interviewee.

After the panel members offered their critiques of the student’s performance, their peers provided their input. Not only did interviewee garner the knowledge, experience, and terror of a panel interview; the students were provided with the tools to become more competitive, more professional and more successful in today’s ever changing world economy. This program has proven to be rewarding to both the students and the alumni members.

Events are normally conducted in accordance with the Board of Governors meetings. The service is provided in the fall and spring. The next event will be held during Homecoming Week. All students, regardless of major, are encouraged to participate and are welcome to apply. There are limited openings (to be determined) with preference given to graduating seniors.

The student will be asked to supply a current resume and information on the position for which he/she is applying. The student is expected to know background on himself/herself, the position, the company, or agency for which he/she has applied. If the student does not have a specific company or agency for which he/she has applied, but has a profession they desire, that is acceptable. The student is expected to dress for success and to conduct himself/herself in a professional manner.

Any alumni, regardless of major, who wishes to participate is welcome and encouraged to volunteer. Please feel free to contact the Office of Alumni Affairs at 1-256-782-5404 or Steve Botello at Steve.Botello@comcast.net or 1-703-335-9013.

Fall 2006

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Southerners 50th Year reunion Novembe

S

By Farshad Makari Poor

everal generations of Marching Southerners -- long recognized as

members of one of the top marching bands in the country -- gather for their

historic 50th anniversary reunion and performance on November 11, 2006.

JSU will pay homage to five decades of Southerners, Marching Ballerinas, color guard members, directors, and others who assisted JSU’s largest ensemble in becoming one of the nation’s great marching bands.

Hopes are that more than 1,000 Southerners alumni will take to the field during the anniversary halftime show on November 11.

JSU band director Ken Bodiford invites all Southerners -- even if they feel they cannot play an instrument anymore -- to participate on the field.

“We want all Southerners alumni to be included, and we’re going to have a wonderful time,” he said.

According to Bodiford, Nov. 11 was chosen because it is the last game of the year and is on Veterans Day weekend.

Dr. John Finley, founding director, says: “The Southerners and Ballerinas are always, from the beginning to the last moment, exciting and spectacular groups.”

Even Southerners who have been off the field for years are still making news. James “Jim” Bennett, a JSU graduate and chairman of the JSU Board of trustees, recently became one of seven recipients who were awarded the Signature Sinfonia. The award recognizes alumni members who have achieved a high standard of accomplishment in their field or profession, thereby bringing honor to Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

Southerners alumni and friends can find reunion reservation forms and a schedule of activities at www.marchingsoutherners.org The alumni office asks that all alumni update their e-mail addresses with the office as soon as possible. To do so, e-mail alumni@jsu.edu.

Southerners alumni can register for the anniversary event by visiting http://www.marchingsoutherners.org.

If you do not have Internet access, please contact the alumni office at 800-231-5291 to register by phone.

For more information, call 256-782-5562. Reservation forms and payment must be sent to the JSU Alumni Affairs Office, 700 Pelham Road North, Jacksonville, AL 36265.

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2006 Head Ballerina Alison Inglis models one of the first ballerina uniforms. Helen Johnson, one of the first ballerinas, provided the uniform.

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regional rehearsals

We are going to be having some regional rehearsals prior to the Alumni Reunion. Below are the locations for the rehearsals, if you would like to attend. All rehearsals will be Sunday, October 22 @ 3 p.m. *Local Times* ATLANTA AREA Ms. Robin Harry, rhary@paulding.k12.ga.us Paulding County High School 1297 Villa Rica Highway Dallas, GA BIRMINGHAM AREA Mr. Scott Waid, scott.waid@trussvillecityschools.com Hewitt-Trussville High School 5275 Trussville-Clay Road Trussville, AL NW GEORGIA AREA Mr. Bob Steelnack, bsteelnack@floydboe.net Pepperell High School 3 Dragon Drive SE Lindale, GA JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY Ken Bodiford, kbodifor@jsu.edu 700 Pelham Road North Jacksonville, AL

Friday, November 10 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Alumni Registration (Stadium) 4:15 pm - 5:30 pm Southerners Rehearsal (Stadium) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm Cookout (Gamecock Field) 7:30 pm - 7:45 pm Welcome by Dr. Meehan, Charter Member Recognition (Stadium) 7:45 pm - 9:45 pm Rehearsal (Stadium) * Gamecock Center for uniform and photo display, video (Friday & Saturday) * * Stephenson Gym (Alternate in the event of bad weather) Saturday, November 11 8:30 am - 9:30 am Rehearsal (Stadium) 10:30 am Pre-Game (Current Southerners) & Senior Awards 11:00 am Kickoff Halftime Current Southerners & Alumni Post Game Current Southerners Full Show The Power of 125...Join the Celebration! Capital Campaign Reception Join the Development Office and Dr. William A. Meehan as they share plans for the new JSU Center for Musical Arts facility.

www.marchingsoutherners.org Fall 2006

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“I want to be a godly man first. And my family comes second. A career is no good without those two things. I want that to come through to my friends and out on the road. What’s important is not how much wealth you can collect. In 100 years that will be gone.”

Playing by Faith

Reprinted with permission by Emily Sutherland for www.gaither.com.

To say that Gordon Mote is a gifted artist is like describing a two-carat diamond as “white.” It’s true, but is not an adequate description. We had a long talk during his long drive toward Syracuse as he headed out for his first official weekend as a member of the Gaither Homecoming Tour. In this first segment of a two-part interview is a glimpse into the heart and life of our fascinating new friend.

As we talked during his trek out of Nashville, Gordon knew almost exactly the point in the road where his cell phone might cut out.

When it did, he called back and said, “I thought maybe we were able to pass that spot in the road, but I guess not.”

“How do you see so much without sight?” I wondered.

He answered without me asking. “I rely on my other senses more heavily, and they are more finely tuned to compensate for the lack of sight. I guess I don’t know what I do different from anyone else because I’ve never done things any other way.”

Gordon is highly sought-after in Nashville as one of the finest studio musicians anywhere, and he has worked with nearly every country artist in the business. Session players have to be incredible musicians, as they must be able to walk in and immediately play whatever is put in front of them. So, ever since I met Gordon, I had one question. “How does a blind guy sight-read?”

He explains, “Once I hear something I can play it. Most songs we work on in the studio have a demo we can work from, so we listen to that one time through and go from there. You really have to pay attention, though!”

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Bill and the Vocal Band always seek out great musicians to make their music the best it can be, but Gordon was a particularly great find because his love for gospel music and deep spiritual roots created a connection that resulted in more than just a working relationship, but also a friendship and a team that took the latest Vocal Band CD to a whole new level. Gordon reflects fondly on their sessions working on “Give It Away.”

“We were throwing ideas back and forth, and I had some ideas on ‘Worthy The Lamb’ that I wanted to run by Bill. You don’t want to go too far with a classic, so I wanted to be careful. But Bill is great, and I knew he would tell me if it didn’t work.

So I played out some of my ideas for him.

He was quiet, so I asked him, ‘Bill, are you digging this?’

Guy said, “He’s crying. He digs it.”

“That’s the thing about working with this group. There are no egos. We’re just creating. And I believe this is the best combination they’ve ever had. These guys are just fun to hang out with. It’s not only about music when we’re working together; they’re genuinely concerned about the people around them. Working with them is not like work!”

“I’ve worked with everybody on the Homecoming tour at one time or another, but Jessy Dixon is the only one I didn’t meet while working on his project. He wasn’t in the studio during the time I was working on his CD, so I later introduced myself to him as the only white guy on his album,” Gordon jokes.

He adds, “Seriously, though, I appreciate how the artists have welcomed me.

Everybody learned so much from Anthony, so the support and friendship of the artists is making this transition as easy as it could possibly be. And not only have the artists been great; all the people behind the scenes at Gaither Management have been wonderful as well. Everyone I’ve met has made me feel like part of the family.”

Gordon reflects on his last memory of Anthony Burger...

“The last time I saw Anthony was at the Homecoming concert in Dallas. After his piano solo, they had the smoke machine going, so it looked like he had set the piano on fire. So I started teasing Bill, asking him why I didn’t get a smoke machine. He started stuttering a little, so I finally said, ‘I think maybe you didn’t give me a smoke machine because you didn’t think I would know the difference.’

“Of course, the audience thought it was hilarious to see Bill trying to respond, but then after my solo at the piano, Anthony ran over and started up the smoke machine for me. That was great. He was quiet, but he would often reach out like that and express his support without words but in gestures that told you he was okay with you.”

Gordon works hard, playing studio sessions during the week then heading out for concerts on the weekends. But he makes it a priority to find time for the things he loves to do at home.

“I love hanging out with Kimberly and the kids on the porch or shooting baskets out on the driveway. There are so many great smells outside this time of year.”

“Shooting baskets?! How does that work?” I beg.

“Sometimes when the kids are there, they will hit the rim with a stick. But I know my yard...I know every divet and every inch of that driveway, so I do okay when I’m at home. If we’re in a gym, it’s a little harder. I have to shoot for five or ten minutes before I get my bearings. But after that, I’m okay.”

“My brother Michael is really good! He is three years younger than I am, and he is also blind...and he is a great shot! When I was on the road with Lee Greenwood, we were going through my hometown, so mom had the band over for a big dinner. While we were there hanging out at the house, shooting baskets, I made a bet with Lee that Michael could make three out of five shots from the three-point line. Lee took me up on it, and he lost. Michael made four out five!”

Gordon adds that he and his brother share a lot of the same interests. “We both bleed Crimson! And we both love our Braves. Growing up, we were avid sports fans. We spent every minute possible watching sports on television. Once I realized I could hear sports on the Internet, I had to get a computer!”

Now, with the use of a program called JAWS for Windows (JAWS stands for Job Access With Speech), Gordon gets around on the computer faster than most sighted people! Not long ago, he helped Jeff Easter troubleshoot over the telephone and got his laptop back up and running!

He can use anything from a mixing board to a remote control to the French press he uses to make fresh coffee every morning. “My two vices are fresh coffee and

electronic audiovisual equipment. I’ve got to have whatever latest technology becomes available. The other day, a friend of mine said, ‘Gordon, you’ve got the nicest hi-definition television in the neighborhood, and you can’t even see it!’

“I now am subscribed to both XM and Sirius satellite radio, both at home and on the road. XM has baseball, and Sirius has everything else. So now I can keep up with all the games from wherever I am.”

Gordon was raised in church and often sang with his brother in local services, but he really began to discover Christ in college.

“I rededicated my life to the Lord after I figured out what God’s grace is all about. I got some really great teaching during that time, and I found myself saying, ‘Now THAT’s the Jesus I want to know... not the one who’s always mad at you.’”

At this stage of his life, his priorities are clearly defined. “I want to be a godly man first. And my family comes second. A career is no good without those two things. I want that to come through to my friends and out on the road. What’s important is not how much wealth you can collect. In 100 years, that will be gone. But one day my kids will be raising their kids, and they will pass on what I model for them. It is so important that I model Christ. All the other stuff will pass away.

“My wife and kids make it very easy for me to do that. They are easy to love and so supportive. Kimberly travels with me a lot, and she makes me look and sound much better.”

When asked how he found such a beautiful wife, Gordon is quick to give credit to Christ; yet not without mentioning the seeing-eye dog He used to do it. “I had a yellow lab named Atlas for several years.

He was a great ice-breaker. I know my way around Nashville now, so when Atlas died, I didn’t need to get another dog. But he sure helped me find a beautiful girl.”

His first solo project was done when he was eight. His sophomore project, however, is now complete at age 35. “When I started doing my own project, no one knew me and it was hard to get good songs. So I went to my country friends and they gave me the title song, “There’s No Place That Love Can’t Reach.”

As the song says, “There’s no place that love can’t reach...I know it’s true, I’m living proof.” Gordon is living proof, not only that love can reach anywhere but that it can help

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you do things you never thought possible.

Except maybe one thing, Gordon reminds us: “I still wish I could drive.”

Part 2 You learn a great deal about people by hearing them talk about the major turning points in their lives. In this second of a two-part interview, Gordon Mote takes us back thirty years and walks us through his journey from kindergarten at the Alabama School for the Blind to being one of the most sought-after musicians in Nashville.

Here he tells us about the people and experiences down through the years that impacted his life forever.

“I started out at the Alabama School for the Blind, where I attended kindergar-

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ten, first and second Grade. It was there that I learned the basics, like how to read Braille, how to type, and how to write. Then in third grade, I started in the public school system. I did that because I knew I needed to learn to survive in a sighted world. I didn’t want to go through life waiting for people to do things for me.

“I loved doing things people said I couldn’t do. In 6th grade I started playing in the band, then in 7th grade I started playing clarinet in the marching band. On the first day the marching band performed, there were television cameras there covering the story. I didn’t realize it was a big deal.

I was doing what everyone else was doing.

But I guess I was only the first or second blind kid to join a school marching band.

“I moved to the drum line in the 9th grade, and the choral program and band programs at my school, Emma Sansom, started becoming very competitive in 10th, 11th and 12th grade.

“In the early ’70’s the Emma Sansom Marching Band had been the most awarded high school marching band in the country.

They were unbelievable. But they fell off in mid-70’s. Then when my class came through, we had a lot of talented musicians, and I got to be a part of the school’s big comeback. Our choral director, Paul Edmondson, probably made the biggest impact in my life of any teacher. We all called him “Mr. Ed,” and he was the greatest teacher.

He was a believer and stood for everything that was right. I felt like he was my best friend. His choirs always got superior ratings, and his students who competed in other solo and group competitions at the district and state levels were consistently among the best competitors. It was a great experience to be in that environment.

“Mr. Ed is still there at Emma Sansom and is now the assistant principal, but he still runs the choral program and it’s still tops in the country. It was a great place to develop musically.

“I was very competitive. I think I felt I had to be. But I competed against myself more than I competed against other people.

I always wanted to be better... always wanted to take myself to the next level.

“During my junior year at Emma Sansom, I was awarded as the state’s most outstanding choral student in district, and I won the same award at both the district and state level in my senior year. I also did some arranging for the choir, as well as

for the band. As a result of being a part of that music program, I received a scholarship to Jacksonville State University, which is known all over as an incredible school for anyone who wants to be in great choral and band programs. They turn out a lot of music teachers; in fact, that’s where Mr. Ed came from. People all over the country go to JSU to become music teachers.

“The JSU marching band, The Marching Southerners, is probably the best in the country. Because of all the extra studying I needed to do in college ( I had to translate everything into Braille), I didn’t participate in the Marching Southerners, but I would do arrangements for them. I would dictate, and someone would write the charts out for me.

“I was a vocal major. I knew pursuing a piano major would be hard because they would nail me on my technique. Plus, I felt I could improve on my own on the piano, but not vocally. That’s where I needed the most training. I had an incredible vocal coach, Dr. Richard Armstrong (who also was Mr. Ed’s voice teacher when he went to Jacksonville State). Dr. Armstrong taught me so much about correct vocal technique.

He knew how to teach me to sing ‘wrong’ right. I’d go out and sing in clubs, and he trained me to sing the music I wanted to sing without ruining my voice.

“He told me, ‘If you have great technique, you can sing anything.’

“He was very patient with me. I had to learn to sing in German, Italian, and so forth, and he worked and worked with me until I got it right. The National Association of Teachers and Students (called NATS) has a competition every year, and it’s a pretty big deal. Thanks to Mr. Armstrong, I won that competition three years in a row. He had never had a student who won before, so I was happy to be able to win that for him.

“During those years at Jacksonville State, I got them to let me be a disc jockey for the college radio station. I loved it. Ever since I was a kid, I have absolutely loved radio. In fact, I probably drove Dad nuts. I would go from station to station... I listened to everything. My brother and I would always pretend we were D.J.s, and let me tell you, we thought we were big stuff! So doing that for the college station was fun.

“Pretty soon I gained a following of students who were listening on a regular basis, so I started a morning show. That went really well, so during my last couple years of

college, I was hired by a large AM Christian station in the area to work mornings, then I was eventually moved to the afternoondrive time slot.

“While I was in college, someone arranged for me to meet with a producer named Jimmy Johnson, who had produced some huge records, like the Rolling Stones’ ‘Brown Sugar’ project and Bob Seger’s ‘Old Time Rock & Roll.’

“I had recorded and produced demos of some of the songs I had written, so my dad drove me to me to Muscle Shoals, Alabama, to meet him. I played some of my songs for him, and he strongly encouraged me to move out to Nashville.

“If it weren’t for Jimmy Johnson, I wouldn’t have gone to Belmont. I probably wouldn’t have even heard about it. They’d never had a blind student in their program before, but I auditioned for some scholarships there, and Jimmy gave me a great recommendation. They believed him because they knew who he was.

“He made such a profound impact on my life that ever since that time I’ve been telling people, ‘If God puts you into a position where something you say means something to people... use it to help people!’

You have to earn that kind of reputation, and you have to be very selective about the people you recommend, but when God gives you that power, you could make a huge difference in someone’s life like Jimmy did in mine.”

“I met my wife while I was at Belmont, so that’s the greatest thing that happened there. She was a vocal major, too, and we were in an ensemble called ‘Image’. I played, did programming and sang in the group, and she was a vocalist.

“Get this... Kimberly and I met in September, started dating in November, got engaged in February, and got married in July.

This July 18th we will celebrate fourteen years!

“That first year was tough. I was trying to finish school and make money. We lived in family housing at Belmont, and that helped, but I worked to cover our living expenses by playing the piano for students’ voice lessons on campus and also by creating soundtracks for the Vanderbilt show choir.

I was busy with school, trying to get ready for my own recital too, and it was hard to juggle all that. During finals week, I didn’t care what I did next... I just wanted to be out of school.

That same week, one of the teachers on campus who was friends with Kim Greenwood happened to be in a conversation where Kim mentioned that her husband, Lee, needed a piano player. When my teacher called me and asked would I be interested, I laughed. I thought she was kidding.

“Dad had always listened to Lee Greenwood, and I was like sponge. I imitated whatever I heard. So I knew how to play all his hits. I had a meeting with Mr. Greenwood’s public relations guy, Dan Bradley, because Lee was out of town. Dan said that Mr. Greenwood wouldn’t be back in town in time for my senior recital but that he would come and listen to me and tell him about it.

“During that recital, my wife saw Lee in the crowd. He had come back two days early from his trip to hear me, but no one told me. That’s probably a good thing because I would have been really nervous and may not have done as well if I’d know he was there. But after the recital, he came up and introduced himself. That freaked me out!

“Two days after graduation, I went to work for Mr. Greenwood. He told me, “When I heard you do the Stevie Wonder song, ‘I Wish,’ I knew I needed to hire you.”

“They were skeptical of hiring a blind guy and didn’t know how they would take care of me, but after I had been on the road with them for awhile and they got to know me, Lee said, “I feel stupid now. Ever since we hired you, you’ve been taking care of us.”

Lee was really good to me and let me do arranging for the group, and my time on the road with him was a great experience. He had a publishing company, and he let me play on some of his publishing demos. That relationship started a ripple effect and got me more and more artist gigs. That’s when I started working with Tanya [Tucker] and Trisha [Yearwood].

“In September of 1996, I came off the road with Trisha Yearwood and started doing studio work. God knew I needed to be off the road, and He worked everything out great. The timing was perfect because on October 1st my first child, Samantha, was born.

“The first guy to ever hire me for a studio session was Mark Mosley. He also hired Kimberly. I still work for him today. I play, sing, or whatever else he needs done. I kept working - playing on anything I could

-- and I went from working “some” to working “all the time.”

“In 2001, I got a call from Keith Stegall’s office to do the Alan Jackson “Drive” album. Alan’s piano player, a guy known as Pig Robins, was a good friend of mine. He was blind, too, and has been playing on big albums since the early ’60’s. He was a huge influence on me and on many country and gospel piano players. But Pig was going through cancer treatments and couldn’t play for the album. So he told them to call me. They did... and the first number one song I ever played on was, “Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning” from that album.

“One particular producer, who has become one of my best friends, Scott Hendricks, was very influential on me and helped me get a lot of great work. He had worked his way from engineer to producer, and eventually to President of Capital Records. He broke so many great artists...

Faith Hill, Brooks and Dunn, and a lot of others whose names you would recognize who have become major country artists.

And Scott would call all his friends and say, “You’ve gotta hire this guy!”

“As the years have gone by, new producers have hired me, and guys who have been doing it for a long time have hired me.

That got me here. I have great respect for all the piano players that are doing it. There is so much great talent in Nashville, and it is very hard to get in, so I find it pretty unbelievable that I’ve been able to work for most of the artists in Nashville. One day I would be in the studio playing for their albums, thinking, “Boy, I would love to meet them someday...” Then, next thing I knew, I was playing for them in person. There are a few I haven’t worked with, but not very many.

“That God would show me favor and allow me to do the things He has allowed me to do honestly blows me away. I really think when we are willing to work hard, we’re obedient to Him and we are careful to give Him, the credit, He puts in places to succeed. When we are willing to take on whatever He leads us to do, He blesses us beyond anything we can imagine!

Gordon keeps us updated on what’s new in his life through his Gaither.com Blog! Read Gordon’s blog here: http://gaither.com/blog/?user=gordonmote.

Visit Gordon’s website at www.gordonmote.com.

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BARBARA CURRY Mrs. Barbara Curry of Anniston said she enrolled as Jacksonville State College’s first black American student when she (then Barbara Minkeson) registered for classes as an education major in home economics in the fall of 1965.

by Al Harris 30

Gemof theHills

As far as anyone knows, Mrs. Curry is correct, though JSU is unable to pinpoint its exact moment of desegregation because everything worked exactly as it should have: smoothly, without fanfare, protests, or media. JSU’s International House Program ensured the campus was ethnically diverse long before integration became a civil rights issue.

Barbara Crook Curry was born on November 24, 1941, to Sye and Louise Crook of Ohatchee. She graduated in 1959 from Calhoun County Training School in Hobson City and attended Alabama A&M for two quarters before interrupting her studies to work in New York City.

Mrs. Curry returned to Alabama and graduated from JSU in 1969, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in vocational home economics. On the Monday morning following graduation, Mrs. Curry went to work for Alabama Power as a home economist. Eventually, she became a senior marketing specialist who worked with heating and cooling dealers, builders, real estate professionals, and the public in promoting electric energy through the use of heat pumps, water heaters, and appliances.

On November 24, 2001, Mrs. Curry retired from Alabama Power after 32 years and five months of service.

Mrs. Curry was married to the late Henry Curry of Anniston, who was instrumental in Alabama’s civil rights movement. Mrs. Curry has two grown children: Starla, 31, of Gardendale, Ala., who recently earned a law degree; and Joseph, 44, of Anniston.

The Gem of the Hills recently visited with Mrs. Curry to learn more about her experiences as one of JSU’s first black American students.

q: Why did you decide to enroll at JSU? A: I will just say it was the Lord’s will because had it not been for integration taking place at the time it did, I would not have been able to get an education.

My brother was getting ready to go to college the same year, I had a marriage that had gone stale, and I had come back home [from New York City] to live with my parents, and it was a matter of needing to do something to better myself.

Q: Did you encounter any problems at JSU? A: I didn’t really have any great problems.

JSU had the International House, and that helped ease the tension. Plus, there was so much emphasis at the time on the University of Alabama and Gov. Wallace standing in the door and these types of things that that’s where everybody was focused.

Q: What do you remember about your first day on campus?

A: That morning, because of the dress code, I was wearing a green skirt, plaid blouse, and loafers. It was a beautiful sunny day.

In my first class, Mrs. Grace Gates was wearing a business suit; male professors wore ties. Female students could not wear shorts, pants, jeans, flip-flops.

I walked into the classroom on one end of Bibb Graves. There were students sitting at their desks, you know how the aisles are, and the students sitting in front of me and on each side got up and left their seats. They stood beside the wall. It was like, we’re not going to sit here because there’s a black person in here. Professor Grace Gates walked in that morning and announced to the class, “This is 201 History -- look at your receipts and make sure you’re supposed to be here.” And everybody looked at their charts, and she said, “If you’re supposed to be here, I ask that you take a seat.” Some of them did, and some of them left. Now, whether some left because they weren’t supposed to be there, or whether they left because they didn’t want to be in the class with me, I’ll never know.

Some kids were nice -- they’d pass by and say good morning or what have you.

One of the biggest surprises that got me -- I didn’t know the common name for the freshmen on campus -- was when a couple of them came over to my table,

trying to be friendly, I guess, and they’d say, “Are you a Rat?” I didn’t know they called a freshman a Rat. I didn’t know how to take that, and I’d say, “No, I’m not a Rat.” I transferred in as a sophomore. But I didn’t know what else to come across with.

The teachers were nice -- I made a lot of good friends. There were a lot of students at JSU that I worked together with in groups, and we eventually graduated together. It got to where, in a few weeks, I didn’t sit by myself any longer. Somebody I’d know would come in and sit down, and we would begin to interact.

Overall, it was a good experience. By the second semester, I had made friends with people in my class, and we were studying together.

My senior year, that’s when there were more black people on campus. Starting in 1966, black educators in the area and more black students began enrolling. Up until 1965, black people who wanted to get a master’s had to go to Tuskegee, Alabama State, or Alabama A&M. And it was kind of hard because if they had kids they had to get the family situated where they could go away to school. But after JSU was integrated, then around 1966 there were a lot of educators coming to JSU to work on their master’s degrees because they could commute every day and be home with their kids at night.

I was growing spiritually and being selfmotivated, and I was doing something at that time that I knew I had to do.

But not because I was wanting to say I was integrating the school. I was doing this so that I could better my life. I was there for a reason because I was thinking about that 2 1/2 year-old child that I had who was looking to me to raise him.

We were raised poor in Ohatchee. We’d never been hungry and had never been outdoors, but I had the love of a closeknit family. I was determined never to put my child in the bread line. I could have resorted to welfare, but that was not the type of life that I wanted. I wanted to elevate, and I saw this as my only chance because I didn’t have money to go elsewhere. I couldn’t pay the board and tuition.

I really think that because I was there for

that reason -- I was humble and thankful that I got another chance. People reached out and helped me.

Q: Did you have many black friends on campus before graduating? Were you one of the first black graduates?

A: The whole time I was at JSU I never had a class with another black person. I guess it was because of the time of day we were taking the class and the majors we had.

I was casually acquainted with other blacks, but there were not a lot of us. I did not graduate first -- someone with more hours transferred in.

Q: What was one of your best moments at JSU? A: My best memory was when I walked into Dr. Theron Montgomery’s office, academic dean at that time, back when I was doing student teaching. I had to leave campus and couldn’t work my campus job. I had worked on the workstudy program and that $75 a month was what kept me in school. I earned $75 per month for 15 hours a week.

That semester, I couldn’t work because I had to do student teaching and was going to be off campus all day. So, I went to Dr. Montgomery’s office -- it was my last semester in college -- and I said, “Dr. Montgomery, I don’t know what I’m going to do. I don’t have any money, but I’m too far along and I don’t want to quit.” I told him somebody could lend me the money or not but that I wasn’t going to drop out and would be here, money or no money. He said, “Barbara, that’s not a problem. Why haven’t you been to see me earlier?” Well, I was working -- not trying to get loans. I told him, “Whoever will lend me the money, I will pay it back when I go to work.”

He picked up the phone and called the financial aid advisor and said “See if you can fix her up with a loan and a grant.”

So I went to the financial aid office, and they gave me a $700 loan and they matched it with a $700 grant. To me, that was one of the greatest moments -- I was getting $1,400 to attend school!

I could afford to buy materials to do student teaching! I could buy gas to get to school! I said thank God for another blessing. And that’s where it always comes back to the saying, “Ask and it shall be given. Seek and ye shall find.”

And if you’re asking sincerely and for a purpose, it’s going to be there.

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State Normal School History

By Farshad Makari Poor The State Normal School grew out of a fortuitous series of events that, in turn, gave the institution the necessary leverage to become northeast Alabama’s largest and most outstanding teacher training facility.

Numerous training and preparatory academies existed in Benton County (later named Calhoun), particularly in the Anniston and Oxford area. Male and Female academies and smaller home-based institutions provided a basis for advanced-level training needed by teacher candidates.

The institution later known as the State Normal School was ultimately formed or helped along by the merger of the Male Academy, established in 1836, and the separate Female Academy, which formed in 1837. These two academies became part of Calhoun College.

In response to the nationwide normal school movement in the 1880s, in which educators advocated institutions devoted primarily to teacher training, the separate local academies found it advantageous to pool their resources and establish a stronger, unified institution. The State Normal School was born in 1883.

According to the research of Dr. Effie White Sawyer, who wrote “The First Hundred Years: The History of Jacksonville State University,” two legislators -- L. W. Grant in the Senate and J. D. Hammond in the house -- during the 1882-83 session of Alabama Legislature pushed for the establishment of the Jacksonville and Livingston State Normal Schools.

According to Sawyer: “Governor Edward A. O’Neal signed the bill on February 22, 1883, and the first appropriation was $2,500 for each school - to be used for no purpose except the payment of salaries. with the establishment of the State Normal School, Calhoun College closed, transferring to the Normal School its books and equipment, twelve acres of land, and a two story brick building, sixty two by sixty two feet.

Captain William M. Hames, president of the board of directors of the Normal School, accepted the deed.

Other directors were John M. Caldwell, L. W. Grant, S.K. McSpadden, James Crook, H. L. Stevenson, J. D. Hammond, W.P. Howell, Dr. J. Y. Nisbet, William J. Alexander, and D.A. Aderholdt.”

James G. Ryals, a graduate of University of Virginia, was elected as the first president by the Normal School board. The school started with three teachers: W. J. Borden for mathematics, Eliza A. Bowen for English branches, and Ida J. Woodward for primary department.

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At the end of the first year, there were 247 names in the roll book and twenty five pupils in the normal department proper.

Sawyer explains: “The Normal School closed its second annual session on the 20th June, 1885.

Trustee Hames reported to Solomon Palmer, superintendent of education, that the school had improved over the previous year: the regular faculty had increased to five teachers, and of the total attendance of 203, thirty two were in the Normal department.”

By 1908, the Normal School had outgrown its quarters in the courthouse; therefore, the City of Jacksonville provided $10,000 for additions to the old Calhoun College building. The Normal School continued there until 1929.

The requirement for more facilities was increased due to persistent growth at the Normal School. Throughout Gov. Bibb Graves’s administration, $300,000 was given to Jacksonville to build a new campus. Jacksonville High School was purchased for training purposes, and Bibb Graves and Daugette Halls were constructed.

In 1929, the legislature elevated the Normal School to a four-year institution, and the name was changed to Jacksonville State Teachers College.

Sawyer writes: “During the year 1929, the City of Jacksonville sold all of the city school land and buildings to the Jacksonville State Teachers College. An agreement between the City Council and City School Board and the State Board of Education provided that the duties of the City School Board were to be performed by the State Board of Education, these duties, it appears having been subsequently delegated to the college.”

The Teachers College boomed and turned out some of the state’s most appreciated teachers and educators. In 1957, the name was changed to Jacksonville College, and in 1966, it was made a full university.

In the early years of the institution’s existence, there was a high turnover in presidents of the college, but only six men have been president since 1899: Dr. C. W. Daugette (1899 to 1942), Dr. Houston Cole (1942 to 1971), Dr. Ernest Stone (1971 to 1981), Theron E. Montgomery (1981 to1986), Harold J. McGee (1986 to1999), and William A. Meehan (1999 to the present.)

Ramona Wood Library

Daugette Hall, new wing in progress.

Fall 2006

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Sports Athletics Continues to Excel

J

The Gamecock baseball team finished the season with their third straight Ohio Valley Conference Championship after claiming the 2006 OVC Baseball Tournament title and earning a bid to the NCAA Tuscaloosa Regional

Regional, hosted by the University of Tennessee. The JSU football team played the final regular-season game for the OVC Championship, and two players earned AllAmerica honors at the end of the season.

The JSU rifle team completed another successful season after winning the OVC

2006

acksonville State athletics continues to excel, not only on the playing fields, but in the classroom as the Gamecocks won numerous conference championships and academic awards during the 2005-06 season after 15 of 16 sports advanced to post-season play.

The Gamecocks won a total of four Ohio Valley Conference Championships and also claimed the OVC Women’s AllSports Trophy and finished third in the Men’s All-Sports standings for the second straight year. The All-Sports trophy is a symbol of overall athletic excellence in conference-sponsored championships.

Jacksonville State had eight OVC Player or Freshman of the Year Awards, 10 NCAA All-Americans, 54 OVC All-Conference honorees, one CoSIDA Academic All-America, and two OVC Coach of the Year Awards.

During the fall, the Gamecock athletic department enjoyed tremendous success, with the volleyball team winning the OVC Championship and earning the school’s first-ever NCAA Division I post-season bid, advancing to the Knoxville NCAA

Championship and finishing as the NCAA National Smallbore National Champions.

It was the second straight OVC title as head coach Ron Frost was named the OVC Coach of the Year and the Gamecocks garnered several All-America honors.

The spring sports season saw the

Football Schedule Date Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16

Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 5 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28 Nov. 4 Nov. 11 Nov. 18

Opponent Site Time at Furman (CSTV) Greenville, SC 12:30 p.m.

OPEN SEMO (CSS-TV) (Family/Preview Day) Jacksonville 2:30 p.m. at UT-Martin Martin, TN 6 p.m. at Eastern Kentucky Richmond, KY 2 p.m.

Murray State (CSS-TV) Jacksonville 5 p.m. at Mississippi State Starkville, MS 1:30 p.m.

Tennessee State (CSS-TV) (Homecoming) Jacksonville 2:30 p.m. at Tennessee Tech Cookeville, TN 7 p.m. at UT-Chattanooga Chattanooga, TN 5 p.m.

Samford (CSS-TV) Jacksonville 11 a.m.

(Southerner’s Reunion/Military Day) at Eastern Illinois Charleston, IL 1:30 p.m.

SPORTS Cumulative Awards by JSU during the 2005-06 Year:

Gamecock women’s golf team post their second consecutive OVC Championship and advanced to the NCAA Regionals at Texas A&M. Head coach James Hobbs was named the OVC Women’s Golf Coach of the Year.

The Gamecock baseball team finished the season with their third straight Ohio Valley Conference Championship after claiming the 2006 OVC Baseball Tournament title and earning a bid to the NCAA Tuscaloosa Regional. It marked the second trip to the NCAA’s in the last three years.

The Gamecocks had one player named to the Louisville Slugger Freshman All-America team.

Gamecock student-athletes also excelled in the classroom as 57 student-athletes were named to the OVC Commissioner Honor

Roll and 106 student-athletes posted a 3.0 grade point average or higher during the academic year.

Senior golfer Shanelle Howell was named just one of six Ohio Valley Conference Scholar Athletes, and she also became the first-ever golfer to earn CoSIDA Academic All-America honors.

In addition, the rifle, men’s tennis, women’s tennis, and women’s track and field teams each claimed the Ohio Valley Conference Team Sportsmanship Award for their respective sports. Voted on by the studentathletes and coaches of the respective sports, the team awards are bestowed upon the Conference squads deemed to have best exhibited the standards of sportsmanship and ethical behavior as outlined by the OVC and NCAA.

Women’s OVC All-Sports Champions Four OVC Championships Volleyball, Rifle, Women’s Golf, Baseball Four OVC Team Sportsmanship Awards Rifle, Men’s Tennis, Women’s Tennis, Track and Field One NCAA National Championship Rifle OVC Coach of the Year Awards Ron Frost, Rifle James Hobbs, Women’s Golf 10 NCAA All-Americans Eight OVC Player or Freshman of the Year Awards 54 OVC All-Conference Honorees 1 CoSIDA Academic All-America 16 OVC Medal of Honor with a perfect 4.0 GPA 57 OVC Commissioner Honor Roll Students 106 Student-Athletes with a 3.0 GPA or higher

2006 OVC Rifle Champions: Jacksonville State Gamecocks: Front Row: L-R: Crystal Arndt, Audrey McMillin. Back Row: L-R: James hall, Michael Dickinson, Joseph Hall, Lawrence Nelson.

Support the Gamecocks!

Contact Misty Cassell at mcassell@jsu.edu to join the Gamecock Club.

Fall 2006

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SPORTS Jacksonville State University

2006 volleyball schedule (University of Louisville - Cardinal Tournament - Aug. 25-26) Aug. 25 at Louisville 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 26 vs. Jacksonville 10 a.m. vs. Missouri-Kansas City 5 p.m.

Aug. 29 GEORGIA STATE 6 p.m.

(Creighton University - Bluejay Invitational - Sept. 1-2) Sept. 1 at Creighton 7 p.m.

Sept. 2 vs. Iowa 9:30 a.m. vs. North Dakota State 4:30 p.m.

(Loyola University Chicago - Loyola Invitational) Sept. 15-16 Sept. 15 % vs. St. Louis 5 p.m.

Sept. 16 % at Loyola-Chicago 12 p.m. % vs. Oakland 5 p.m.

Sept. 22 at Tennessee State 7 p.m.

Sept. 23 *at Austin Peay 2 p.m.

Sept. 27 *SAMFORD 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 *at Tennessee Tech 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 *AUSTIN PEAY 7 p.m.

Oct. 7 *TENNESSEE STATE 2 p.m.

Oct. 13 *EASTERN KENTUCKY 7 p.m.

Oct. 14 *MOREHEAD STATE 2 p.m.

Oct. 20 *at Southeast Missouri 7 p.m.

Oct. 21 *at Eastern Illinois 7 p.m.

Oct. 25 *at Samford 7 p.m.

Oct. 28 *TENNESSEE TECH 2 p.m.

Nov. 3 *at Tennessee-Martin 7 p.m.

Nov. 4 *at Murray State 2 p.m.

Nov. 10 *EASTERN ILLINOIS 7 p.m.

Nov. 11 *S.E. MISSOURI 2 p.m.

Nov. 17-19 OVC Tournament TBA HOME GAMES RED IN ALL CAPS

* - Ohio Valley Conference Game, All Times Central Jacksonville State University

2006 Women’s Soccer Aug. 21 Aug. 25 Aug. 27 Sept. 1 Sept. 3 Sept. 8 Sept. 10 Sept. 15 Sept. 17 Sept. 19 Sept. 22 Sept. 24 Sept. 29 Oct. 1 Oct. 6 Oct. 9 Oct. 13 Oct. 15 Oct. 20 Oct. 22 Oct. 31

Univ. of North Alabama 5:00 pm (exhibition) Birmingham Southern Univ.

7:00 pm Auburn University 7:00 pm MTSU College Classic Tourn.

Western Kentucky University Murfreesboro, TN 5:00 pm Middle Tennessee State Univ.

Murfreesboro, TN 3:00 pm Alabama State University 7:00 pm Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, GA 1:00 pm Winthrop Univ.

2:00 pm Rock Hill, SC South Carolina University Columbia, SC 12:00 pm Georgia State University 6:00 pm Austin Peay State University 7:00 pm Clarksville, TN Tennessee Tech 1:00 pm Cookeville, TN Morehead State University 7:00 pm Eastern Kentucky University 1:00 pm Samford University 7:00 pm Charleston Southern Univ.

3:00 pm Murray State University 3:00 pm Univ. of Tennessee-Martin 2:00 pm Southeast Missouri State Univ.

7:00 pm Eastern Illinois University 1:00 pm OVC Tournament- 1st Round TBA

Home Games in Red

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Gemof theHills

Former Softball Players Held 10th Year Anniversary Reunion

On February 11, close to 100 former softball players, managers, coaches, and their families came back to campus to celebrate the 10th anniversary of being a Division I program and the 1st conference win. Natasha Whatley, a shortstop and lead-off hitter for the last U.S. Olympic team, was the featured guest speaker at the event. Natasha will also be competing on the next Olympic team. The former teammates had a dinner on Saturday evening, and many stayed over for the annual softball fan day held on Sunday. JSU’s current softball players were able to join in at the reunion on Saturday evening and had a great time meeting former players and hearing their memories of their time at JSU!

The “VOICE” of the Gamecocks to Change this Fall Radio veteran Matt Coulter and former Gamecock All-American Ed Lett will lead the Jacksonville State University Football Radio Network this fall.

“We are extremely excited to announce the addition of Matt as our playby-play announcer,” Fuller said. “Matt has more than 30 years of radio experience, and he will provide our fans a great opportunity to experience Gamecock Football through the radio.”

Coulter, one of Alabama’s bestknown sports personalities, has a wealth of broadcast experience, including the last eight years as color analyst on the UAB Radio Network.

Coulter has been the host of the popular “Middays with Matt” on WJOX Radio in Birmingham since 1993. Prior to that, he worked for NBC 13 (WVTM) as anchor reporter in Birmingham. Since starting in radio in 1973, he has won six Associated Press Broadcaster Awards during his 34 years of broadcasting experience.

The Fayetteville, Ark., native currently serves as the “Voice” of the Birmingham Steeldogs and also did play-by-play for the Birmingham Fire. He has experience on the University of Alabama Crimson Tide Network and also serves as a track public address announcer at the Talladega Superspeedway.

Coulter also has play-by-play and color commentary experience on Comcast Charter Sports Southeast (CSS) and ESPN Regional Television.

Coulter replaces Mike Parris, who will devote 100 percent of his time to Athletic Marketing and Fundraising for the JSU Athletic Department.

Ed Lett begins his first season of providing color commentary on the Gamecock Football Network. Lett, a four-year letterman and former JSU All-America quarterback, was named the Gulf South Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 1981 and again in 1982.

“I was fortunate to coach Ed when he starred here at JSU,” said Fuller. “Ed will be able to provide the listeners with an insight from a former quarterback’s perspective and understands the entire game of football, which will only enhance the broadcast for our fans.”

The anchor of the Gamecock Football Network is the Jacksonville State University campus station WLJS-FM 91.9. The JSU Sports Network affiliates will allow Gamecock football to be heard in four southeastern states and to reach a worldwide audience on the Internet at www.JSUGamecockSports.com.

SPORTS

Catch the Gamecocks Live Jacksonville State University and Comcast/Charter Sports Southeast (CSS) have agreed to a partnership that will carry all four Gamecock home football games live on the Regional Sports Television Network during the 2006 season.

Jacksonville State’s seasonopening football game at Furman will be televised by CSTV, while other road games will be carried locally on a tape delay basis.

Internet broadcasts of conference games can be seen through the OVC website. For the website link, visit www.jsugamecocksports.com

Jacksonville State University Athletics

Be a part of our winning tradition...Join the JSU GAmecock clUB...

Kenny Burrell, a Jacksonville resident, hit a hole in one on his first shot of the 2006 alumni tournament in May of this year. It happened at the 140 yards par 3 #6 hole of the short course at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail Silver Lakes course in Gadsden, AL. The shot easily won closest-to-the-pin honors for the hole. Other closest-to-the-pin winners were Keith Riley (132 yards par 3 #2 Backbreaker) and Larry Young (123 yards par 3 #1 short course). Ken Howell won the longest drive on #9 Backbreaker.

The team of Jason Tidwell, Bascom Woodward, Keith Riley, and Mark Jones won the tournament with a score of 9 under par.

Larry Young, Brad Young, Ken Howell, and Keith Howell finished second with a score of 8 under par.

Please make plans now to play in the 2007 tournament. Watch your e-mail for information on dates or contact the alumni office to put your name on the reservation list.

GO GAMECOCKS

2006 Alumni Golf Tournament

Visit www.jsugamecocksports.com or call 256-782-5536 for more information about the Gamecock Club.

Fall 2006

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With Alumni Spring Shrimp Boil a Huge Success

J-Club Reunion September 16, 2006 FAB 40s/Nifty 50s Reunion September 30, 2006 Class of 1956 50th Year Reunion October 20, 2006 ROTC Alumni Banquet October 20, 2006 Criminal Justice Annual Alumni Reception October 20, 2006 60s Group Reunion October 20, 2006 Mock Interviews October 20, 2006

JSU alumni from Calhoun County gathered with several current student members of the STAT club (Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow) for a Spring Shrimp Boil on the front lawn of the alumni house. The event, which was attended by over 110 people, was such a success that it will become an annual event each spring.

JSU Students Participate in Mock Interviews

HOMECOMING SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21 A complete listing of all Homecoming Activities can be found on page 15 Grey Echelon (former Southerners & Marching Ballerinas) 50-Year Anniversary of the Southerners Celebration A complete listing of all Reunion Activities can be found on page 25 November 11, 2006 Alumni Trips Las Vegas - 4 days December, 2006

Several JSU alumni are volunteering to serve as interviews for ‘mock interview’ sessions with current JSU students. If you would like to participate, contact the alumni office.

Other Upcoming Chapter Events September 21 October 6 October 12 October 19 October 26 November 4

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Middle Tennessee Chapter Alumni After-Hours Greater Washington, D. C. Chapter Annual Dinner Birmingham Area Alumni After-Hours Calhoun County Alumni After-Hours Atlanta Area Alumni Event Alumni Tailgate Party in Chattanooga prior to the JSU vs. UTC football game

Gemof theHills

Big Sky Montana - 5 days March, 2007 Former Men’s Basketball Reunion coming up in January or February, 2007: watch your mail for reservation information.

Don’t miss out on important information. We need your e-mail address. Please e-mail us at alumni@jsu.edu.

Event Pictorial: JSU alumni everywhere are gathering and having fun. Pictured below are scenes from just a few alumni events held over the past few months.

Central TX Chapter, Alumni Dinner

Dallas/Ft. Worth, Alumni After-Hours

Middle Tennessee, Alumni After-Hours

Greater Rome After-Hours

Greater Washington, D.C. Picnic at Wolf Trap

Northeast Georgia Meet and Greet

Madison County, After-Hours

FAB 40s/Nify 50s Reunion

Alumni Association Executive Officers

The Birmingham Area Chapter held a “State of the University” event at Vulcan Park on April 6, 2006. Thanks to Lacey Bacchus, Vulcan Park, Cafe Iz catering, and special thanks to our event sponsors: SM III Technologies, America’s First Federal Credit Union, Don Drennen Buick, Pearce, Bevill, Leesburg, Moore, P.C., Lane McNaron & April Jackson, Drs. Wayne & Sara Finley, John & Judy Roberts, Royal Automotive, and Emily Clark.

President SARAH BALLARD ’69/’75/’82 Anniston, AL Ball2940@bellsouth.net

Past President PAM YOUNG ‘77 Piedmont, AL 256-447-9087 (w) pam@grubmart.com

Vice President Treasurer DON KILLINGSWORTH MARK JONES ‘82/’83 ‘99/’01 JSU Recreational Sports Jacksonville, AL 256-782-5070 (w) 256-782-5278 (w) mjones@jsu.edu donk@jsu.edu Recording Secretary NANCY TURNER JSU Alumni Office 256-782-5404 (w) nturner@jsu.edu

Stay up to date on all the latest alumni news and events at

Executive Director Alumni Affairs KACI OGLE ’95/’04 JSU Alumni Office 256-782-5405 (w) kogle@jsu.edu

Contact Us 700 Pelham Road N. Jacksonville, AL 36265 256-782-5404 800-231-5291, ext. 5404 256-782-5502 (f) alumni@jsu.edu Assistant Alumni Director www.jsu.edu/alumni ALAN RENFROE ’88 JSU Alumni Office 256-782-8256 (w) arenfroe@jsu.edu

www.jsu.edu/alumni 39 Fall 2006

39

alumnotes Births 1990–1999

J. Clinton Bradley, ’93, and Carrie Dooley Bradley, ’05, Fort Payne, Ala., announce the birth of their daughter, Catelyn Annmarie, 30 December 2005. Mr. Bradley was a member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at JSU. He is employed as District Manager for Liberty National Life Insurance in Athens, Ga. Lori Roszell Diodate, ’93, and her husband David, Atlanta, Ga., welcomed the birth of their son, Maddox Dean, on 6 April 2006. Mrs. Diodate is employed by Safeco Insurance, as Unit Manager, Atlanta Claims.

Stephanie Doss-Deamues, ’94/’97, and her husband William, La Vergne, Tenn., announce a new addition to their family.

Their daughter, Sydney Sanaa, was born 2 May 2006. Mrs. Doss-Deamues is a former member of the JSU Alumni Association Board of Governors and is a Life Member of the Association.

Dr. Kerri Gilbert Bowie, ’95, and her husband, Dr. Jon Bowie, Fairhope, Ala., announce the birth of their daughter, Ava Catherine, 2 February, 2006. She has a big sister, Hannah Grace, who was born 7 July 2003. Dr. Kerri Bowie is a dentist practicing in Mobile.

Elementary this fall. Mrs. Ogle is the JSU Alumni Director and was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority at JSU. Her husband is a JSU football coach.

Shane, ‘96 and April Killingsworth Jackson, ‘95, Spring Hill, Tenn., welcomed the birth of their twins, Joshua Patrick and Jon Paul, 29 July 2005. Proud brother is Will, 5, and sister, Lynlee, 2. Mrs. Jackson was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority at JSU. Jeffrey Roy Atkins, ’98, and April Hanson Atkins, ’02, Helena, Ala., announce the birth of their son, Gunner Christian, 31 May 2006. Mr. Atkins is the new assistant principal at Thompson High School in Alabaster.

He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity at JSU and was selected Mr. JSU in 1996. Mrs. Atkins is a teacher at Helena Intermediate School in Helena. She was a member of Alpha Xi sorority at JSU.

2000-06

5Erin Jackson Pirkle, ’02, and her husband, Todd Ray, ’03, Oxford, Ala., announce the birth of their first child, Georgia Rae, 11 December 2005. Mrs. Pirkle was a DJ at 92J, the JSU campus radio station. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Public Administration. Both Mr. and Mrs. Pirkle are employed at Anniston Army Depot.

Jennifer Lillian Aldridge Richards, ’02, and her husband Cory Dean, McDonough, Ga., announce the birth of their son, Connor Dean, 28 January 2006. Mr. and Mrs. Richards were married 7 December 2002. A graduate of the Criminal Justice Department, Mrs. Richards is currently a stay-at-home mom, but was employed with the Fulton County (Ga.) Emergency Service Department, the Alachua County (Fla.) Sheriff’s Department, and with the Gainesville (Fla.) Police Department as a Forensic Crime Scene Technician.

5Ben, ’98/’01/’02, and Shelley Whorton East, ’98, Leesburg, Ala., announce the birth of their daughter, Lydia Paige, 10 March 2006. They have a son, Bryan, born 3 May 2004. Mr. East is the principal at Sand Rock School. Mrs. East, a registered nurse, is the school nurse at Centre Elementary School.

5Kaci Smith Ogle, ’95/’04, and her husband, Jimmy, along with big sister Abbie, Jacksonville, Ala., welcomed the birth of James Milas Ogle, III, 30 August, 2005.

“Little Jim” recently celebrated his 1st birthday. Big sister Abbie is 7 years old and will be entering the second grade at Kitty Stone 40 Gemof theHills

5Jaxon Trent Pate was born on 1 February 2005 to parents James Denver Pate, ’04 and Miranda Killingsworth Pate, ’04.

alumnotes Weddings 1980–89

Melanie Hale, ’81, became Melanie Hale Beighley, November, 2005. She was a member of the Southerners at JSU and currently resides in Young Harris, Ga.

1990–99

Terrie Lynn Conley, ’90, and Willie Frank Tyson, Jr., 10 June 2006, Munford, Ala. Mrs. Tyson is employed with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

Stacie Helms, ’91, and Mark Fraas, 8 April 2006, Lebanon, Tenn. Mrs. Fraas is employed as an employee relations manager with TRW Automotive in Lebanon.

John R. Kilgore, ’92, and Rachel Simone Fisher, 13 May, 2006, Atlanta, Ga. Mr. Kilgore is employed by the U.S. Air Force, Warner Robins, Ga. Martha Colleen Phillips, ’92, and Leland Ty Rothchild, 1 June 2006, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Lara Hedgepath, ’93/’97, and Jason Little, 27 May 2005. Mrs. Little is employed with Sanmina-SCI, a Fortune 500 company, at its North American Shared Services Center located in Guntersville, Ala. She has served as Intercompany Accounting Manager since February 2006.

The couple resides in Section, Ala. Carra D. McWhorter, ’93, and Jason Brian Smith, 29 April 2006, Tybee Island, Ga. Mrs. Smith is a former JSU cheerleading sponsor and is currently employed with Dillards Department Store in Oxford. Mr. Smith is currently attending JSU. Slade Stinnett, ’93, and Michelle Reynolds, 5 May 2006, Enterprise, Ala. Mr. Stinnett lettered for four years as the kicker for the JSU national championship football team. He is employed with Stinnett Heating and Cooling of Enterprise.

Mark Howard Johnson, ’94, and Gina Leigh Brummett, ’05, 4 February 2006, Talladega, Ala. Mr. Johnson was a member of Delta Chi fraternity at JSU. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are both employed by the Civilian Marksmanship Program.

Joseph Paul Jackson, ’95, and Alyson Raquel Ryser, 29 April 2006, Fort Morgan.

Mr. Jackson is employed as a sales representative for Wolf Camera in Birmingham.

Hashan Jermal Pulliam, ’95/’99, and Brooke Allison Bowen, ’01/’05, 1 October 2005, Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia.

Mr. Pulliam played football for JSU and was a member of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity. He currently serves as the Director of the Residential Treatment Center at Mountain View Hospital in Gadsden, Ala. Mrs. Pulliam is a psychological testing coordinator at Mountain View Hospital.

Emory Richard Serviss, ’95, and Lillian Ella Crawford, 3 June 2006, Panama City Beach, Fla. Mr. Serviss was a member of the International House Program at JSU. He is employed with PRADCO Outdoor Brands as a web marketing manager.

Almanda Michelle O’Dell, ’97, and Kevin Heath Pointer, 22 April 2006. Mrs. Pointer is employed by Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center, in Anniston, Ala. Judson Wall Shafer, ’97, and Chloe Chaconas Truslow, 11 February 2006, Isle of Palms, SC. Mr. Shafer is employed by BSN Medical in Nashville, Tenn.

Leslie Bailey, ’98, and Julian Meloni, 11 March 2006. Mrs. Meloni was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority at JSU. She is a member of the Gadsden Service Guild and is employed by Bill Miller Photographers.

Brian Scott Bearden, ’98, and Kelly Michelle Greeson, ’02, 29 April 2006, Sylvania, Ala. Mrs. Bearden is employed by the Dekalb County Department of Human Resources.

Mr. Bearden is employed with the Dekalb County Board of Education.

Ashley Kenneth Brown, ’98, and Andrea Jeanette Lockette, ’98, 4 March 2006 at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel, Las Vegas, Nev. Mr. Brown is a sales executive and Mrs. Brown is an accountant with Outback Steakhouse, Inc. They reside in Tampa, Fla. Dr. Megan Green, ’98, and Royce Heath McGlaughn, 4 March 2006. Dr. McGlaughn is a veterinarian at Rainbow City Pet Clinic, Rainbow City, Ala. April Lynn Calhoun, ’99, and Clint Lee Vaughn, 20 May 2006. Mrs. Vaughn is employed by Victory Christian School, Pell City, Ala. Joseph Randall Campbell, ’99, and Kimberly Lynn Claxton, 8 April 2006, Rainbow City, Ala. Mr. Campbell is an attorney at the law firm of Shinbaum, Abell, McLeod & Vann, Montgomery, Ala. Charles Nathan Hodge, ’99, and Crystal Ann Trayer, 10 June 2006, Gratz, Penn. Mr.

Hodge is employed by Southern Co. as an information systems analyst.

Jenny Elizabeth Sanders, ’99/’03, and Joseph Todd Crawford, 6 May 2006. Mrs. Crawford is employed with West Georgia Health System in LaGrange, Ga. Valerie Roxann Shaver, ’99, and James “Jay” Nathan Hipp, 3 June 2006, Arab, Ala. Mrs. Hipp is a teacher with the Gadsden City School System.

2000–06

Lee Anthony Hinkson, ’00/’02, and Kelly Elizabeth Nye, ’03/’04/’05, 10 June 2006, Jacksonville, Ala. Mr. Hinkson played baseball for JSU and is employed by the Paulding County (Ga.) School System. Mrs. Hinkson played basketball for JSU and is also employed with the Paulding County School System in Dallas, Ga. Nathan Chad Horlsey, ’00, and Kate Nicole Sommers, ’04/’05, were married New Year’s Eve 2005. Mr. Horsley is working on his doctorate from Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and will be the head band director at Carolina Forest High School, SC. Mrs. Horsley is a special/elementary education teacher and will be teaching in Horry County, South Carolina with her husband for the 2006/2007 school year. Both Mr. and Mrs. Horsley were members of The JSU Southerners.

Julie Michelle McGatha, ’00, and Eric Scott Ferrell, 24 March 2006, Jamaica. Mrs. Ferrell was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi and the Marching Ballerinas at JSU. She is a member of the board of directors of the Leeds, Ala., Chamber of Commerce and owns Curves, Leeds/Moody.

Derrick T. “Dee” Mitchem, ’00, and Heather L. Hogan, 3 June 2006, Albertville, Ala. Mr. Mitchem was a member of Delta Chi fraternity at JSU and is employed by Pearl River Resort in Mississippi as a player development executive host.

James Stanley Pace, Jr., ’00/’01, and Emily Catherine Porter, 25 February 2006, Auburn, Ala. Mr. Pace is the co-owner of a family business, Rainbow Paint and Decorating, in Birmingham, Ala. Robert Clyde Reams III, ’00, and Kathryn S. Forehand, 27 May 2006, Opelika, Ala. Mr. Reams was a member of the JSU basketball team and was active in the Baptist Campus Ministries. He is employed with HealthPlus Fitness Center.

Fall 2006 41

alumnotes Claire Lee Hollingsworth, ’01, and Brandon W. Hamilton, 20 May 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mrs. Hamilton is employed in the corporate offices of Shop-A-Snak in Birmingham.

Jonathan Paul Ponder, ’01, and Ashley Llane Green, ’04, 6 May 2006. Mr. Ponder is employed by Rent-A-Center in Talladega, Ala. Mrs. Ponder is employed by Citizens Baptist Medical Center, Talladega, Ala. Phillip Stephen Robinson, ’01, and Amber Lynn Tumlin, 3 June 2006, Hartselle, Ala. Mr. Robinson is employed by the Morgan County Board of Education as a teacher and coach at Union Hill School.

Jeremy Seth Sasser, ’01, and Kendra Suzanne Brown, 10 June 2006, Sheffield, Ala. Mr. Sasser is employed at Hyundai of Alabama in Montgomery, Ala. Susan Elizabeth Terry, ’01, and David Christian Dykes, 10 June 2006, Cheaha State Park, Talladega, Ala. Mrs. Dykes is employed by the Sylacauga School System.

Jennifer Lynn Bentley, ’02, and Eric Damon Johnson, 15 October 2005, at Camp Cottaquilla, Jacksonville, Ala. They reside in Piedmont, Ala. Amy Elizabeth Church, ’02, and David Ethan Box, 18 March 2006. Mrs. Box was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority at JSU. She is currently employed as an advertising account executive at Charter Media in Anniston, Ala. John Brant Duncan, ’02, and Jennifer “Jenny” Brooke Green, ’05, 22 April 2006.

Mr. Duncan is employed by Abbott Labs of Chicago, Ill. Mrs. Duncan was a member of the JSU Marching Ballerinas. She is employed by Ebsco Industries in Birmingham, Ala. Salista Gamble, ’02, and Maurice Valentine, 3 June 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mrs. Valentine is employed by Noland Long Term Care Hospital.

Mindy Suzanne Jones, ’02/’04/’06, and Kenneth Lebron Chadwick, Jr., 27 May 2006, Fort Payne, Ala. Mrs. Chadwick played soccer for JSU. She is employed as a teacher and assistant girls’ soccer coach by the Fort Payne City Board of Education.

Kelli Lynn Patterson, ’02/’05, and John Frank Hendon, 10 June 2006, Roanoke, Ala. Mrs. Hendon was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority at JSU and is employed by the Roanoke City Schools as a teacher.

42 Gemof theHills

Dwayne Albert Wood, ’02, and Kristi Michelle Murphy, 6 May 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mr. Wood is employed by Wal-Mart of Jacksonville.

Kelly Marie Amos, ’03, and Joshua Nathaniel Rea, 3 June 2006, Southside, Ala. Mrs. Rea was a JSU cheerleader, a member of Phi Mu sorority and was active in the Baptist Campus Ministries. She is employed by Nationwide Insurance in Birmingham.

Judson Dee Bailey, ’03, and Tiffany Marie Alldredge, ’04, 22 April 2006, Gadsden, Ala. Mr. Bailey is employed by World Finance Corporation as assistant manager in Trenton, Ga. Mrs. Bailey is employed by Erlanger Health System as a mother/baby nurse in Chattanooga, Tenn.

Matthew Tyler Bowers, ’03, and Courtney Hoppel, 6 May 2006, at the JSU Alumni House. Mr. Bowers is employed by the Calhoun Treatment Center in Oxford, Ala. Ryan Anderson Harrell, ’03, and Carla Beth Lockmiller, ’06, 10 June 2006, Gadsden, Ala. Mr. Harrell is employed by Homeland Security in Anniston. Mrs. Harrell is employed by Alaco Pharmacy in Glencoe, Ala. Patricia Nicole Harvel, ’03, and Joshua Keith Yerta, 27 May 2006, Roanoke, Ala. Mrs. Yerta was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority at JSU. She is employed as a teacher at Moody Elementary School, Moody, Ala. Jonathan Chad Harris, ’03, and April Nichole McElmoyl, ’03, 20 May 2006. Mr. Harris is employed by World Finance Corp., Birmingham, Ala. Zachary Arend Hope, ’03, and Amy Paige Chaffin, ’04, 22 April 2006. Mr. Hope is the manager at Hibbett Sporting Goods in Boaz, Ala. Mrs. Hope is employed at Albertville Elementary School, Albertville, Ala. Cliff Mitchell, ’03, and Sheryl Moorer, 18 March 2006, Albertville, Ala. Mr. Mitchell is employed with the Albertville City School System as a teacher and coach.

Amanda Porter, ’03, and Nicholas Jones, 6 May 2006, Scottsboro, Ala. Mrs. Jones is employed by Marshall County Court Referral Services, Inc. Katy Ellen Skinner, ’03, and Joel VanMeter, 20 May 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mrs. VanMeter is employed by Open MRI in Oxford, Ala. Mr. VanMeter is an assistant basketball coach at JSU. Alyson Watford, ’03, and Erick Anderson, 25 February 2006. Mrs. Anderson was

a member of Phi Mu sorority at JSU and is employed as coordinator of It’s Just Lunch!

Stephanie LeeArrie Baldwin, ’04/’05, and Richard Paul Willingham, 10 June 2006, Roanoke, Ala. Mrs. Willingham was a member of the JSU Marching Ballerinas.

She is employed by Polk County Schools in Cedartown, Ga., as a music teacher.

Joshua David Boyd, ’04, and Ashley Nicole Scott, ’05, 17 March 2006. Mr. Boyd is employed by the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles. Mrs. Boyd is employed by Albertville High School, Albertville, Ala. Rex Adam Brewer, ’04, and Brooke Nicole Reeves, ’04, 27 May 2006, Guntersville, Ala. Mr. Brewer played baseball for JSU. He is employed by the Cherokee County School System. Mrs. Brewer is employed by the Boaz City School System.

Lindsey Marie Deru, ’04, and Kristofor Richard Tanley, 20 May 2006. Mrs. Tanley is sales coordinator for Employment Screening Services, Inc., Birmingham, Ala. Mary Christan Harris, ’04, and Jason Patrick Green, 10 June 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mrs. Green was a member of Phi Mu sorority at JSU and is employed by JSU as an admissions counselor.

Teresa Dianne Hatton, ’04, and Cory Edwards, 10 June 2006, Selma, Ala. Mrs. Edwards is employed by Oxford Elementary School, Oxford, Ala. Dennis Keith Hawkins, ’04, and Erin Leigh Ellis, 25 March 2006, Boaz, Ala. Mr. Hawkins is employed by TS Tech in Boaz, Ala. Justin Bo Haynie, ’04, and Taylor Lynn Sweeney, ’04, 6 May 2006. Mr. Haynie is employed by Process Automation and Simulation Services, Inc. at Mercedes Benz. Mrs. Haynie is owner of Taylor Portraits and is employed

by Boaz Discount Drugs.

Lori Ann Hudgins, ’04, and Steven Brian Kirby, 8 April 2006, Gulf Shores, Ala. Mrs. Kirby is employed with Sylvan Learning Center in Boaz, Ala. Adam Payne Newton, ’04, and Anne Marie Deason, June 2006. Mr. Newton is employed by First American Bank.

Kendra Jill Odom, ’04, and Derek Patterson, 20 May 2006, Adamsville, Ala. Mrs. Patterson is employed by Southern Pharmaceutical Services.

Abby Reeves, ’04, and Josh Doss, February 2006, Hokes Bluff, Ala. Mrs. Doss is employed by Dixie Pacific Mfg.

alumnotes Christina Renee’ White, ’04, and Melvin Omar Roberson, 27 May 2006, Mobile, Ala. Mrs. Roberson is employed as a teacher with the Grapevine (Tex.) School System.

Lindsey Nicole Bagwell, ’05, and Robert Matthew Oliver, 28 January 2006, Ragland, Ala. Suzanna Lea Bennett, ’05, and Heath Alexander Morton, 27 May 2006, Gadsden, Ala. Mrs. Morton was a member of the JSU A Capella Choir and is currently employed by the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala. Jennifer Cash, ’05, and Chris Helton, April 2006. Mrs. Helton is employed at IMMO at Redstone Arsenal. Mr. Helton is attending JSU completing his degree in finance and is employed at Morgan Stanley.

Walker Edward Cook III, ’05, and Andrea Dianne Cooper, 18 March 2006, Birmingham, Ala. Mr. Cook is a teacher at Moody Junior High School in the St. Clair County School System.

Russell Eric Fortenberry, ’05, and Cyndel LaShea Lane, 25 March 2006, Huntsville, Ala. Mr. Fortenberry is a logistics manage-

ment specialist at the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville.

Aubrey Leah Goggans, ’05, and Daniel Alton Simmons, 3 June 2006, Oxford, Ala. Mrs. Simmons is employed by Contractors Staffing, Inc. Holly Suzanne Graves, ’05, and Jason Roger Painter, 18 March 2006, Chelsea, Ala. Mrs. Painter was a JSU Marching Ballerina and is currently pursuing her master’s degree.

Joseph William Holler, ’05, and Ashley Ranee Woodward, ’06, 27 May 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mr. Holler is employed by Solectron Corp. Mrs. Holler is employed by Stringfellow Hospital in Anniston, Ala. Matthew Alan Law, ’05, and Christie Leann Norton, 6 May 2006. Mr. Law is a certified behavior analyst with Allied Behavioral Services, Inc. Jaclyn Nicole McCrelles, ’05, and Fredrick Jarred Acker, 6 May 2006, Silver Lakes Golf Course, Gadsden, Ala. Mrs. Acker is employed by Northeast Alabama Regional Medical Center in Anniston, Ala.

New Life Members of the JSU Alumni Association (February–June, 2006)

Lacey Michelle Bacchus ’00

Anthony Clark Hall ’87

Boyd G. Scoggins ’03

John Richard Benevides

Sally Brock Hall ’92/’95

Margaret Cunningham Scoggins ’01

Holli Michelle Blass ’03

Kenneth Wayne Hudson ’05

Remona Kay Sewell ’82/’88/’98

Jana Lee Bowman ’04

William Charles Jordan ’01/’03

D. Scotty Shadix ’98

Maurice W. “Bill” Campbell Jr. ’77

Ulla-Riita K. LaGrone

Alicia Smith Simmons ’85

Kathleen E. “Katie” Carter ’05

William Ronald LaGrone ’06

Steve A. Simmons ’83

Terry Wayne Casey ’93/’94

Somer Lynn Leathers ’05

David Austin Smith ’90

Nalda Ragsdale Coffey ’69

Norma L. Lewis ’83/’84

Mary Irene Dodd Smith ’75

G. David Cotton ’67

Meghan Maskel Martin ’01

Brian Ashley Vick ’06

Samuel William Davis ’76

Kelvin Van Minton ’90

Albert Ernest Ward, Jr. ’68

Amanda Leigh East ’03

Kerri Ann Traylor Minton ’90

Alison Cortney Welty ’04

Brenda Mitchell East ’71/’72

Kelly Felker Murray ’85

Ryan Crawford Welty ’03

Z. R. East ’72

Steven Dale Murray ’92

Brice Daniel Wood ’05

Martha Allen Ellison ’57

David William Phillips ’73

James G. Frazier ’91/’94

Donna Monique Poe ’05

Janette Rhodes Fulmer ’69/’73/’92

Mary Catherine Poland ’06

Jesus Javier “Jesse” Gamez ’00/’03

Terry L. Quarles ’81

Pearl Arnett Guier ’47

Dennis E. Salvatore ’76

David Larry McRee, ’05, and Rachel Lee Bain, ’06, 20 May 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mr. McRee was active in the JSU Baptist Campus Ministries and was awarded the Wall Street Journal’s Student Achievement Award in 2005. He is employed at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala. Mrs. McRee was awarded the U.S. Achievement Academy Collegiate All-American Scholar Award in 2006.

Katherine Anne Nelson, ’05, and Russ Preston Newton, ’06, 6 May 2006, Jacksonville, Ala. Mrs. Newton was president of Zeta Tau Alpha, held membership in Phi Kappa Phi honor society, Omicron Delta Kappa leadership honor society and was Miss JSU 2004. She is employed at AmSouth Bank in Anniston, Ala. Mr. Newton was a member of Delta Chi fraternity at JSU. He is employed

by Ron Newton Pontiac, Cadillac, GMC and Volvo in Anniston, Ala. Jessica Palmer, ’05, and Nehemiah “Neo” Voss, 29 April 2006, Gadsden, Ala. Mrs. Voss is employed by Gadsden Regional Medical Center.

Joan Katherine Parr, ’05, and Clay Brandon Tucker, 27 May 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mrs. Tucker is employed by the Gadsden Job Corps Center.

David William Pitts, ’05, and Tiffany Michelle Haney, ’06, 3 June 2006, Anniston, Ala. Haley Gay Sullivan, ’05, and Charles Justin Williams, 18 March 2006, Cropwell, Ala. Mrs. Williams teaches at Walter M. Kennedy Elementary School in Pell City, Ala. Kristen Stacy Weaver, ’05, and Derek Hood, 18 March 2006. Mrs. Hood is employed by the Gadsden City Board of Education.

Terry Lee Williamson, ’05, and Cristina Dawn Butler, 8 June 2006. Mr. Williamson is employed by The Gas House in Fort Payne, Ala. Steven Colby Bates, ’06, and Catherine Duckett, 13 May 2006, Guntersville, Ala. Dana Michelle Crossley, ’06, and Brandon Ray Dover, ’06, 3 June 2006, Anniston, Ala. Mrs. Dover is currently employed by GAP, Inc. Rachel Marie Rose, ’06, and Amos Israel “Tripp” Stedham, 3 June 2006, Glencoe, Ala. Hannah Beth Webb, ’06, and Steven Randal Bell, 10 June 2006, Fyffe, Ala. Mrs. Bell is employed by the Dekalb County Board of Education.

Fall 2006 43

alumnotes Obituaries

(all information obtained from obituary notices unless otherwise stated) CORRECTION: In our previous issue, we listed the death of an alumna in error. We reported the death of Catherine Louise “Kay” Trotter Jordan, ’48, Boaz, Ala. She emailed us to assure us that she is alive and well! The Alumni Office apologizes to Mrs. Jordan, her family and friends for this error.

DID NOT GRADUATE OR DATE OF GRADUATION UNKNOWN Morris C. “Tad” Blumenthal IV, Jacksonville, Ala., 7 March 2006. Mr. Blumenthal played saxophone for the JSU Southerners and Hardcorps Pep Band and was a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

R. Terry Hill, Ashland, Ala., is deceased.

The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of his death. He was a member of the JSU Southerners.

Dr. Milo Magaw, Jacksonville, Ala., June 2006. Dr. Magaw was a retired JSU professor who had taught history for many years with a specialty in Modern European History.

Margie Evelyn McGinnis, Jacksonville, Ala., 8 February 2006. Mrs. McGinnis was a retired staff member from the JSU Building Services Department and was active in the JSU Retirees Club.

Clarence C. Porch, Albertville, Ala. Mr. Porch played basketball at Jacksonville State.

The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of his death.

Robert Crew Smith Sr., Goodwater, Ala., 24 February 2006. He taught for several years before serving with the Navy Seabees in 1942 until 1946. Upon returning to civilian life, he established a car dealership in Goodwater.

He was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 1951 and served on the Ways and Means Committee and the Committee on Local Government. He also served 27 years with the Coosa County Board of Education; 24 of those years as chairman of the Board. Mr. Smith retired in 1990.

Josephine Idell Hudgins Wilson, Jacksonville, Ala. She was retired from the JSU Building Services Department.

1930–39

Arthur Gordon Allen, ’36/’50, Jacksonville, Ala., 22 February 2006. He was a World

44 Gemof theHills

Ward II and Korean War veteran, serving in the U.S. Air Force where he attained the rank of lieutenant colonel. He was a land use planner for the county of San Bernardino, Cal., and a rezoning administrator for the County of San Diego. Upon retiring, he returned to Jacksonville and worked as a planning director for the East Alabama Regional Planning Commission. Mr. Allen also taught classes at both Jacksonville High and JSU. He was 90.

Beulah Wooddy Higgins, ’37, Sevierville, Tenn., 30 March 2005, of Parkinson’s Disease. The Alumni Office was notified by her daughter of her death.

1940-49

Thelma Burgess Clements, ’41, Goodlettsville, Tenn., 12 May 2006. She was a retired educator, having taught at Litchfield Junior High School in Gadsden, Ala., for more than 35 years.

Sara Hardegree White, ’47/’49, Birmingham, Ala., 7 May 2006 of liver cancer complications. Mrs. White was a retired teacher. She was 80.

Sue Outlaw Smith, ’48, Decatur, Ala., 21 June 2005. Mrs. Smith played tennis for JSU and was a member of the Southerners. She also served a term on the JSU Alumni Board of Governors. The Alumni Office was notified by her son of her death.

Marzell Culberson Motley, ’49, Huntsville, Ala., 12 October 2005. Mrs. Motley taught in the Huntsville City Schools for one year. She then served as personal secretary to General John Medaris who was the commander of the U.S. Army Ordnance Missile Command at the beginning of the space program. Mrs. Motley left federal service and served as church secretary for Faith Presbyterian Church for 17 years.

She returned to federal service and retired in 1993. Mrs. Motley was married for 39 years to Charles E. Motley, ’49, prior to his death in 1989.

Cecil W. Wright, ’49/’66, Guntersville, Ala., 15 March 2006. He was a teacher for 49 years at the Grassy School and served as principal of Asbury School and at Alabama Avenue Middle School and Albertville High in Albertville. Mr. Wright also served as interim school superintendent in Albertville and served four years on the Albertville School Board. A coach early in his career, Mr. Wright was elected to the Marshall County Sports Hall of Fame.

1950-59

Mary Phillips Bailey, ’51, Arab, Ala., 11 September 2005. Mrs. Bailey was a long time teacher and counselor in Blount and Marshall Counties schools. An untiring advocate for education in Alabama, she was always mindful of the opportunities that her education at JSU provided. Mrs. Bailey served on the JSU Alumni Board of Governors in the early 1950s. The Alumni Office was notified by her daughter of her death.

Helen Jesperson Forte, ’51, Naples, Fla., 6 May 2006. She was an avid tennis player and talented artist.

Ertis Gerald Sprayberry, ’51, Alexandria, Ala., died recently. He was a World War II veteran and received the Purple Heart for his service in the Pacific Theater. Mr. Sprayberry was retired from Alabama Power Company.

Robert T. Yarbrough, Jr., ’51, Lake Charles, La., 3 March 2006.

Willis Wayne Deerman, ’52, Madison, Ala., 13 November 2005. Mr. Deerman was a deacon at Highlands Baptist Church, a U.S. Army veteran, and retired from the Department of Defense. He lettered in tennis at JSU and was an active member of the Madison County Chapter of the JSU Alumni Association. The Alumni Office was notified by his daughter, Myra Deerman Bryson, ’77, of his death.

Lucille Dyar Montgomery, ’55, Albertville, Ala., 25 March 2006. Mrs. Montgomery had taught at Mt. Hebron School and Albertville Middle School, where she retired in 1987.

Mary Ella Rains Beard, ’56, Guntersville, Ala., 22 December 2003. The Alumni Office was only recently notified by her grandson of her death.

Lola Boyd, ’56, Arab, Ala., 16 May 2006. In her more than 46 years in education, she taught more than 1400 students at Arab, Boaz and Union Hill. She was one of the founders of the Arab Historical Society in the 1970s. Ms. Boyd donated several acres of her property as an outdoor education and wildlife area. She was presented the Outstanding Citizen Achievement Award in 1989.

Weldon Townley Childers, ’57, Tuscaloosa, Ala. The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of his death.

Jack S. Norton, ’58, Pell City, Ala., 2 March 2006. Mr. Norton was a U.S. Air Force veteran and was retired from the State of Alabama Examiners of Public Accounts.

alumnotes Mary Cain Blair Allison, ’59, Charleston, S.C., 27 April 2006. She held various positions at JSU for over 20 years, retiring as a secretary.

1960–69

Mary “Pat” Pebble Brimer, ’60, Remlap, Ala., 12 June 2006. She was retired from the Calhoun County Board of Education with 40 years of service.

Charles Wayne Hawkins, ’61, Fort Payne, Ala., 5 March 2006. Commissioned through the JSU ROTC program, Mr. Hawkins served in the Army until 1963. He then began his career with Alfa Insurance as an agent. In 1972, he was named District Sales Manager and later promoted to Senior Vice PresidentMarketing for North Alabama. In 2000, he became Executive Vice President-Marketing, responsible for over 1500 agents and customer service representatives. He retired shortly before his death with over 42 years with Alfa. Mr. Hawkins served a term on the JSU Alumni Association Board of Governors and the JSU Foundation Board. He was married to Helen Gwen Edwards Hawkins, ’60.

Betty Jean Morris, ’61, Anniston, Ala., died recently. Ms. Morris was a member of the JSU Marching Ballerinas. She was retired from Data Processing with the Calhoun County Commission.

Gennette Ferrell Meeks, ’62, Jasper, Ala., 21 January 2006. Mrs. Meeks taught for 36 years at Curry High, taking a year off to serve as President of the Alabama Education Association.

Palmer Maxine Boozer, ’63, Jacksonville, Ala., 8 March 2005. The Alumni Office was notified by her sister, Mildred Boozer Williams, ’43, of her death.

William Glenn “Bill” Davis, ’65, Shelbyville, Tenn., 16 May 2006 in an auto accident. Mr. Davis was a retired Certified Public Accountant and co-owner of Nan Jan Farms in Shelbyville where he raised Tennessee Walking Horses.

Hayden Thomas “Tom” Ford, ’67, West Point, Ga., 18 March 2006. He had taught for 28 years at Auburn University, where he served as Professor of Health and Human Performance. Following retirement in 1996, he went on to work at Columbus (Ga.) State University, where he served the last ten years as Chair and Professor, Department of Counseling, Educational Leadership and Professional Studies, as well as Director of Graduate

Studies in the College of Education. Mr. Ford played football for JSU. James Albert Cherry, Jr., ’68, Bay Minette, Ala., is deceased. The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of his death.

Dr. Brenda Stone Crowe, ’68/’70, Rainbow City, Ala., 24 May 2006. She retired in 2003 as the Dean of Institutional Advancement and Community Services at Gadsden State Community College, overseeing four departments and $8 million in grants annually. Prior to her administrative position, she taught English at Gadsden State for 28 years, receiving the Most Outstanding Teacher Award in 1989 and the Chancellor’s Outstanding College Faculty of the Year in 1990 from the Alabama College System. She was also adjunct faculty at the University of Alabama Graduate Center for ten years. Dr. Crowe was instrumental in coordinating the planning and funding for the Joe Ford Center for Economic Development.

Johnnie Ray Davis, ’69, Gardendale, Ala., 4 February 2006. She taught at Glencoe Middle School for 22 years.

Era Ayres Lee Greene, ’69, Anniston, Ala. Robert Amos Luallen, ’69, Weaver, Ala., 14 April 2006 from Parkinson’s Disease. Mr. Luallen worked in many professions, including work at Fort McClellan in Anniston and at Lockheed in Atlanta during World War II. He also worked at Turner Dairy, the Amos Luallen Insurance Agency, and as a real estate agent and appraiser, farmer, hydroponics gardener, homebuilder and the owner/operator of Mobile Village in Weaver.

Judy Ann Robinson Turner, ’69, Bowdon, Ga., 13 April 2006. She was a schoolteacher at Ranburne (Ala.) High School until her retirement in 2000. Mrs. Turner had recently been employed at the Butler Spinal Clinic in Bowdon.

1970–79

Helen Brown Frost, ’70, Anniston, Ala., 14 April 2006.

Gary Wayne Petty, ’73, Huntsville, Ala. The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of his death. Mr. Petty was a member of Delta Chi fraternity at JSU and was employed

by Bellsouth Telecommunications.

Elizabeth Ashley Russ, ’75, Anniston, Ala., 4 February 2006. Ms. Russ had been employed by the Calhoun County Board of Education for 30 years. She taught at Bynum Elementary School and served as teacher and

counselor at Walter Wellborn Elementary School.

David Olen Buttram, ’76, Centre, Ala., 3 February 2006. He was an accomplished horseman with a special “horse whisperer” talent. When he was 18, in a Tennessee arena filled with over 22,000 spectators, he and his horse swept the Tennessee Walking Horse Juvenile World Grand Championship... winning the title out from under second place finisher, a horse owned by the now famous Ross Perot and ridden by Perot’s daughter, and another horse owned by Perot and ridden by Perot’s son!

Susan Gregg Morrow, ’76, Gadsden, Ala. The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of her death. Mrs. Morrow was a member of Phi Mu sorority at JSU. Carolyn Louise Harmon Winsor, ’76/’77, Jacksonville, Ala., 11 June 2006.

She was a retired JSU Librarian and was very active in area civic and social clubs and organizations.

Gunther John Rathnow, ’78/’80, Jacksonville, Ala., 26 December 2005. He was a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel. The Alumni Office was notified by his son of his death.

Charles Richard “Rick” Brown, ’79, Jacksonville, Ala. Rebecca “Becky” Wetzel Fountain, ’79, Huntsville, Ala., 19 November 2005. Mrs. Fountain was a data analyst for Trans Union.

She was an active member of the Alabama Federation of Women’s Clubs on the local and district levels. While at JSU, she was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority and a Kappa Sigma Little Sister. The Alumni Office was notified by Sue Spivey Rogers, ’78, of her death.

1980–89

Shelia Diane Duckett, ’81, Gadsden, Ala. The Alumni Office was notified of her death by the post office.

Michael Grant Harper, ’81, Daphne, Ala., 6 April, 2006. Mr. Harper was a previous Baldwin County Commissioner and former Lake Forest Board member. His career included banking, real estate sales, homebuilding and construction sales.

Billie G. Mullinax II, ’81, Lineville, Ala., 3 February 2006. Mr. Mullinax was a member of the JSU Southerners.

Giles M. Herb, Jr., ’86, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., 7 April 2006. Mr. Giles was an Air Force veteran.

Fall 2006 45

alumnotes 1990–99

Wanda Snow McGhee, ’90, Hobson City, Ala., 28 March 2006. Mrs. McGhee was a teacher in the Calhoun County School System where she retired from Wellborn Elementary School.

Billy J. Wells, ’90, Huntsville, Ala. The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of his death.

Neta Rebecca Ogletree, ’91, Dothan, Ala., is deceased. The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of her death.

Andrea Denise Cavender, ’93/’97, Birmingham, Ala., 15 February 2006. Ms. Cavender was employed with JDS Pharmaceutical Company for the past three years.

Ross Aaron Brooks, ’94, Valley Head, Ala. The Alumni Office was notified by the post office of his death.

Myra Ellen “Meg” Golden, ’94/’96, Anniston, Ala., 8 May 2006. Ms. Golden was serving as her church secretary, Sunday school teacher and director and church van driver.

Jason Wayne Landers, ’98, Jacksonville, Ala., 7 February 2006. While at JSU, Mr. Landers was a member of Alpha Tau Omega

fraternity. He wrote for several area newspapers including The Anniston Star, The Daily Home (Talladega), and the Rome News Tribune (Ga.), winning numerous awards writing awards. Mr. Landers was active in the Baptist Campus Ministries at JSU. Robert David Bain, ’96, Houston, Tex.

2000–06

Carrie Vise McGowan, ’01, Bremen, Ga. Mrs. McGowan was a member of the JSU Marching Ballerinas and Delta Zeta sorority.

Alumnotes DID NOT GRADUATE OR YEAR OF GRADUATION UNKNOWN J. Patrick O’Brien, former JSU Dean of Commerce and Business, began his new position as President of West Texas A & M University 15 May 2006. Before coming to JSU, he served as head of the department of economics at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and as visiting associate professor of agricultural economics at Auburn.

Randy Jones, ’76, and Pat Courington (JSU football games broadcast are carried by his MIX 102.9 Radio station in Gadsden, AL) and Gil Bruce, ’82.

All three individuals are Board Members for The Marshall County Sports Hall of Fame in 2005-2006. This year’s annual induction banquet was on held on June 3, 2006 at Gunters Landing in Lake Guntersville, AL. The public can view the Hall of Fame Inductees plaques in the lobby of the Marshall County Courthouse in Guntersville. For more information or nomination forms please visit www.MCSHOF.org.

46 Gemof theHills

1950–59

Robert W. “Bob” Dobbs, ’53, Gadsden, Ala., received the alumni Distinguished Service Award from Gadsden State Community College at their Homecoming reception in January. Mr. Dobbs served in the Marine Corps and then served in the Reserves, retiring as a colonel in 1991. He was in education for 38 years and was named to the first administrative staff at Gadsden State. He retired from Gadsden State in 1985 as dean of students and moved to Memphis where he spent 10 years at Southwest Tennessee Community College before retiring and returning to Gadsden.

Roland L. Day, ’59, Birmingham, Ala., a Korean War veteran, was recently installed as state president of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is also a member of the Board that governs the State Department of Veterans Affairs and serves as chairman of the Hospital Committee, which oversees operations of the department’s three veterans’ nursing homes.

1960–69

Cecil Lendell Bates, ’64, Boaz, Ala., received the Alumnus of the Year Award from Snead State’s Alumni Association in February, 2006. While at Snead, he had been selected Mr. Snead State and served as vice president of the Student Government Association. Mr. Bates served in the military and the National Guard. He began his teaching career in 1964 teaching math at Snead and, during his tenure, served as head of his department for 20 years. Though he retired in 1996, he remained as a member of the adjunct faculty until 2004. His total service to Snead spanned 40 years. He continues to work as a tutor at Boaz High School.

Gloria Rich Griggs, ’69, Rainbow City, Ala., has retired after a 36-year career with the Etowah County School System. She plans to continue teaching theatre and would love to indulge her inner “history buff” by traveling to all 50 states to see historical points of interest!

Bobby M. Junkins, ’69/’72, Rainbow City, Ala., currently serving as Probate Judge for Etowah County, was recently surprised by a proclamation by Mayor Steve Means and the City Council. The Alabama Room of the Gadsden Public Library is now the Bobby M. Junkins Alabama Room and houses local and state history, specifically Alabama genealogy

alumnotes and works by state authors. Judge Junkins served on the JSU Alumni Association Board of Governors and is a life member of the Association.

1970–79

Andrew G. Linn Jr., ’70, Tuscaloosa, Ala., is owner and President of Southland International Trucks, Homewood, Ala. He was one of 14 nominees nationwide for this year’s American Truck Dealers/ Heavy Duty Trucking Magazine Truck Dealer of the Year Award. Mr. Linn is a life member of the JSU Alumni Association.

Steve Glasscock, ’71, Cullman, Ala., has been honored with the 2006 Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award by The Cullman Times. He is chairman of the Healthcare Authority and has been associated with Cullman Regional Medical Center for the past two decades and has been credited with the continued growth of superior health care services in the Cullman area. Mr. Glasscock also serves as President, CEO and chairman of the board at Merchants Bank.

William M. “Bill” Caudle, ’72, Jacksonville, Ala., has become the new pastor at West Side Baptist Church in Jacksonville. He was a member of the JSU Baptist Campus Ministries.

P. Marshall Hartley Jr., ’76/’78, Pell City, Ala., is in his eighth year as the physical education teacher at Odenville Middle School.

Prior to that, he spent 20 years as a teacher/ coach at St. Clair County High School. He played football for JSU and was a member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity.

Dr. Cindy Morgan Jones, ’77, Crossville, Ala., Director of Nursing Education at Northeast Alabama Community College, has been chosen as the Dr. Charles M. Pendley Founders’ Chair Most Outstanding Faculty Member for 2005-06. She is in her 25th year as full time Nursing Instructor and the Division Chair and Director of Nursing Education. Dr. Jones was recognized by the National League of Nursing for her work in getting the RN program at Northeast reaccredited.

Dr. Roger Dale Willmore, ’78, Springville, Ala., author, teacher, pastor and Southern Baptist leader, was awarded an honorary doctor of divinity during the 40th commencement exercises for the University of Mobile in May. Dr. Willmore is Minister at Large for the Stephen Olford Center of Biblical Preaching in Memphis, Tenn., and first vice president of the Alabama Baptist Convention.

He is also currently senior pastor at Deerfoot Baptist Church in Trussville., Ala., and has been preaching since the age of 17.

1980–89

Colonel Wendell B. McLain, ’80, Hoover, Ala., was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in January 2006. Col. McLain currently serves as commander of the 31st Chemical Brigade headquartered in Northport. He began his military career in 1968, serving in the U.S. Army and then the Alabama National Guard. He served in Saudi Arabia during Operations Desert Shield and Storm. His numerous decorations and awards include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Parachute Badge and Expert Infantry Badge. Col. McLain is retired from Alabama Power Company.

Robert Luther “Bob” Phillips, ’81/’83, Anniston, Ala., has been selected as the new principal at Kitty Stone Elementary School, Jacksonville, Ala. Mr. Phillips previously was employed by the Calhoun County Board of Education as both teacher and administrator and worked this past school year as interim principal at Cobb Elementary. He is married to the former Laura Albright, ’92, who worked at the Alumni Office while a student at JSU. Mrs. Phillips is now principal of The Donoho School, Anniston, Ala. Terry Lee Quarles, ’81, Anniston, Ala., has recently been confirmed for promotion from Colonel to Brigadier General in the Alabama Army National Guard. He currently serves as the Training Site Commander, Joint Force Headquarters, Alabama Army National Guard, Montgomery, Ala. BG Quarles is the president of the JSU ROTC Alumni Chapter, serving on the JSU Alumni Board of Governors and is employed as Assistant Director of the Center for Domestic Preparedness at the old Fort McClellan, Anniston, Ala. He is a life member of the JSU Alumni Association.

Faith Thomas Robinson, ’83, Jacksonville, Ala., has been a part of Faith Christian Academy in Jacksonville for the past 11 years.

She currently teaches in the high school for grades 7–10, but has taught in the lower grades in the past. Mrs. Robinson is married to Brian Robinson, ’86, who is employed by the Calhoun County Board of Education and they have two children.

James David Vinson, ’83/’94, Trussville, Ala., is celebrating his 10th year as Direc-

tor of Parks and Recreation for the City of Trussville. Starting with only a staff of four, he has seen the department grow to encompass five centers that house the city’s sports leagues and senior citizen activities with about 25 employees.

Tim Nabors, ’84/’90, Arab, Ala., is principal at Brindlee Mountain Middle School.

He has been in education for 22 years, serving nine years as a classroom teacher and coach and 13 years as an administrator. Mr. Nabors has been principal at Brindlee for over a year.

Wanda Gresham Dunham, ’85, Covington, Ga., has been appointed Chief of Police for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). She formerly served as Deputy Police Chief for the City of Atlanta.

Blair Matthew Callaway, ’86/’92, Foley, Ala., was selected the 2006 Teacher of the Year by the South Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce. He has been employed at Foley High School since 2001 and is a former member of the JSU Southerners.

Tammy Roberson Burden, ’87, Guntersville, Ala., is the new Marshall County Circuit Clerk. She has been involved in management and accounting business operation procedures for the past 19 years. She and her husband own MTS Construction Co., where she handles all payrolls, accounts payable and receivable, financing and marketing. Mrs. Burden also works at Marshall Medical Center North as a surgical scrub technician. She was a member of Phi Mu sorority at JSU. Margaret H. Roberts, ’87, Jacksonville, Ala., has been named market president of Anniston’s Wachovia Bank. She has more than 17 years of professional experience, plus 32 years of local knowledge which will assist her in her new role. Ms. Roberts most recently served as the commercial banking manager and senior vice president of the Anniston branch of SouthTrust Bank. She is married to Jim Roberts, who teaches music at JSU. Paula Denise Thomas, ’87/’89, Fort Payne, Ala., is the director and founder of Recovery Services of Dekalb County, Inc., an organization which specializes in the treatment of drug addiction and provides treatment for the Dekalb County Drug Court.

It is certified by the Alabama Department of Mental Health and the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts. She has more than 18 years of experience working with the court system and mental health.

Fall 2006 47

alumnotes Judith Albro Bollinger, ’88/’92, Jacksonville, Ala., has been teaching at Jacksonville Christian Academy for 11 years. She was a member of the JSU International House Program and active in the Baptist Campus Ministries.

Keysa Minnifield, ’88, Altamonte Springs, Fla., has worked her way up the corporate ladder of Sodexho, the leading food and facilities management services company in North America, to the position of vice president of communications. She has worked for Sodexho and its predecessor companies for 22 years in various leadership roles, entering the industry as a Sodexho student worker while attending JSU working three days a week as a baker in the student dining hall.

Stacy Matthews Crabtree, ’89, Stevenson, Ala., has been promoted to Vice President and Cashier with First Southern State Bank. She has been employed with First Southern for 16 years.

James William McGlaughn, ’89, Southside, Ala., has been an attorney for the past 14 years, practicing in Etowah County with his wife and brother at the law offices of McGlaughn & McGlaughn. Mr. McGlaughn has been admitted and qualified as an attorney and counselor of the Supreme Court of the United States for the past eight years, an honor bestowed very rarely on attorneys in Etowah County. He also holds the rank of Major in the Alabama Army National Guard and was activated to assist in Hurricane Ivan.

Richard Earl White, ’89/’99, Jacksonville, Ala., was recently promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army. He has served in the Army for the past 17 years, receiving numerous medals and decorations. His gold oaks leaves were pinned onto his shoulders by his dad and his grandfather, both veterans. He was commissioned through the JSU ROTC program and currently is the executive officer for the commanding general of the 1st U.S. Army.

1990–99

Laurie Hopkins Funderburg, ’90/’99, Pell City, Ala., is the new principal at Eden Elementary School, having previously served as interim Principal. She has taught in the Pell City system since 1991 and has taught at Eden since 2000.

Twyla Craig Strawn, ’90, Guntersville, Ala., has been a teacher at Asbury for 14 years. She also coaches volleyball and drives

48 Gemof theHills

Thank you to all our life members, new members, and those who renewed their membership this year— your support truly makes a difference! a school bus to athletic events. This year, a former student nominated her to Who’s Who Among American Teachers.

Michael Don Allison, ’91/’97, Weaver, Ala., led the Walter Wellborn state wrestling team to the 2006 1A–4A state championship. The first wrestling championship in the school’s history. Mr. Allison played football for JSU and is married to the former Julie Johnson, ’03.

Ted Bridges, ’91, Montgomery, Ala., has been appointed as director of client development for Vercor, a middle market merger and acquisitions firm. Mr. Bridges will lead the company’s expansion in the Southeast.

Katherine “Kassie” Gielle Millwood, ’91/’05, Boaz, Ala., has been hired as the Library Media Specialist at Big Spring Lake in Albertville after having taught school there for eight years. Mrs. Millwood is a life member of the JSU Alumni Association.

Barton “Drake” Ibsen, ’92, Fort Payne, Ala., is currently serving as incoming president of the Dekalb County Chamber of Commerce. He is clinical director of Rehab Partners. Mr. Ibsen helped lead the JSU baseball team to back-to-back national championships in 1990 and 1991. He is married to the former Michelle Mayo, ’92, who was a JSU Marching Ballerina.

Mary-Julia “MJ” Stephens, ’92, Tyrone, Ga., has launched a one-stop wedding online wedding resource, www.weddingsofgeorgia.com, to help both brides and vendors outside the Atlanta area have access to one another. With a few clicks, brides can search for 45 different services in eight regions of the state. Vendors are charged $30 per month to advertise in one region and $5 for each additional region. There is no charge to the searching bride to find the vendors. Her site also offers info on upcoming bridal shows, planning resources and a question and answer section. Ms. Stephens

is a former member of the JSU Southerners and was selected JSU’s Young Alumna of the Year in 1999.

Anthony “Tony” Lee Dowdy, ’93, Riverside, Ala., is serving as interim principal at Duran Junior High School North Campus and has applied for the principal’s position.

He began his teaching career at Pell City High School in 1994. He also served as head baseball coach, assistant football coach and was chairman of the math department.

Donis L. Johnston, ’93, Fairhope, Ala., is a new sales associate with Weichert Realtors– Eastern Shore in Fairhope, Ala. Mr. Johnston is specializing in residential sales. Prior to entering real estate sales, he worked as CPO for a personal injury law firm and as a teacher, most recently with the Baldwin County Schools. His background also includes a career in the U.S. Army and designing logos for the National Football League.

H. Tommy Conner, ’94, Auburn, Ala., currently the manager of Lanett Operations for MeadWestvaco Packaging Systems, has recently joined the Board of Trustees of Lanier Chattahoochee Valley Hospital Society.

Amy Atchison, ’95, Fort Worth, Tex., is currently a Project Manager at BNSF Railway.

She has been accepted to the University of Tennessee where she will start working towards her PhD in Political Science this fall.

UT has also awarded her a Graduate Teaching Assistantship and she will be teaching Intro to US Government. Ms. Atchison was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi and was on the SGA’s Organizations Council where she served as president.

Chris Dempsey, ’95/’99, Jacksonville, Ala., has been named Teacher of the Year at Piedmont High School. He is in his fourth year at PHS. Mr. Dempsey also loves performing and is a member of the band UnReconstructed, which plays Civil War Era music. The band was named Group of the Year by the Southern Heritage Music Awards

alumnotes and its recent CD was named New Album of the Year. They played at the White House of the Confederacy in Richmond, Va., last year.

Mr. Dempsey was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and the Baptist Campus Ministries at JSU. He also served on the Student Government Association and as a Peer Counselor.

Rita Baker Manyette, ’95, Jacksonville, Fla., has opened a casting company. She is President and Casting Director for Martini Shot Casting Ltd. Co. in Jacksonville. They cast films, television, commercials, music videos, voiceovers, kids, dancers and extras.

She also supplies on-set acting coaching.

Mrs. Manyette has been a national spokesperson, along with her son, for the American Heart Association. She is also a full-time actor. Visit her website at www.MartiniShotCasting.com Scott Martin, ’95, Tuscaloosa, Ala., received his Master of Social Work degree from the University of Alabama after graduating from JSU. He worked as a Clinical Social Worker on an Acute Psychiatry Unit for four years before entering management. He was promoted to Program Manager where he developed the Home and Community Based Care and Care Coordination Departments.

Mr. Martin is currently a Health Systems Specialist in the Medical Center Director’s Office at the Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center. He was a founding member of JSU’s Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and served as a Peer Counselor.

Marie B. Smith, ’96/’98, Fort Payne, Ala., is an accounting instructor at Snead State Community College. She recently traveled to Austin, Tex., to receive the Award of Excellence from the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) at its International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence. Ms. Smith also acts as director of student support services and is the faculty advisor for the SADD (Students Against Drunk Driving) and accounting clubs at Snead State.

Patrick Smith, ’98, Albertville, Ala., is in his second year teaching at Asbury High School. He is a former sheriff’s deputy and newspaper reporter. After working in both fields, he realized his heart was in teaching so he went back to school to earn his teaching degree. He has been in education since 1998.

Jean (Keri) Acevedo-Kelly, ’99, Birmingham, Ala., recently graduated from Cum-

berland School of Law at Samford University.

She is married to John J. Kelly, ’97/’01.

Veronica Miller, ’99, Talladega, Ala., was named Director of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs at Gadsden State Community College in March. She previously served as Director of Counseling Services at Talladega College. She has conducted workshops at the Honda plant in Lincoln and is credited with writing “The Honda Diversity Education Workshop” participant and facilitator guide.

2000–06

David Lackey, ’00, Boaz, Ala., was recently named Boaz Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year. During the past school year, Mr. Lackey and his brother have written a song called “Metacognition Song” which David Lackey has been promoting it ever since. It promotes school and student learning and reached national recognition through a recent filming

by National Geographic at the school.

Lyndon Laster, ’00, Jacksonville, Ala., is law enforcement coordinator at the Department of Justice, US Attorney General’s Office, in Birmingham. He is retired from the U.S. Army and is married to Sherry Laster, ’04.

Heather Moreland, ’00, Birmingham, Ala., has been working for the Georgia-Pacific Corporation in Atlanta since 2001. She received her MBA from Georgia State University in May. Ms. Moreland is engaged and plans to be married in the Spring of 2007. She was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority at JSU. Shannon Smith Lakey, ’01/’03, Trafford, Ala., is teaching at Hayden High School and is married to Chris Lakey, ’01/’03, also a teacher at Hayden. Mrs. Lakey was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority at JSU. Kimberly J. Snow, ’02, Birmingham, Ala., has graduated from Mississippi College of Law School and has met the requirements for admission to the Alabama State Bar. She is employed as Assistant District Attorney, Shelby County, Columbiana, Ala. Ben Cunningham, ’03, Jacksonville, Ala., who has been the education reporter for The Anniston Star since 2003, recently became the paper’s business editor. He’ll also serve as the paper’s assistant city editor. Mr. Cunningham was a member of the Southerners at JSU and received JSU’s 2004 Young Alumnus of the Year Award.

Robert Fielding Griffith, ’03, Glencoe, Ala., has been chosen as the new police chief for the City of Glencoe. A former Gadsden

police officer, he has been working with the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences working death investigations.

Benji Abbott, ’05, Oxford, Ala., is a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and was commissioned through the JSU ROTC program.

He currently serves as a Gold Bar Recruiter for the ROTC battalion at JSU. His great uncle, George W. Lott, ’50, was the first ROTC cadet from JSU to pay the ultimate sacrifice while serving on active duty and was killed in action. Lieutenant Abbott is continuing a long line of military service tradition in his family.

Stephen Michael Douglas, ’05, Guntersville, Ala., is a teacher at Brindlee Mountain Middle School and is the Marshall County nominee for the Alabama Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Brianna Bladen Nifong, ’05, Ozark, Ala., has been commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant through the JSU ROTC program.

Jonathan D. St. John, ’05, Anniston, Ala., recently graduated from the Infantry Officer Basic Course at Ft. Benning, Ga. He is a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army, commissioned through the JSU ROTC program. Lieutenant St. John was a member of the Baptist Campus Ministries at JSU. Stephanie Steward, ’05, Piedmont, Ala., is the recipient of one of only 14 New Teacher Grants sponsored by the Alabama Power Service Organization. The $1000 grant will be used to buy classroom materials and supplies.

Recipients are selected by a committee that includes education school deans.

Jennifer Bacchus, ’06, Jacksonville, Ala., has joined The Jacksonville News staff. She is a recent JSU grad and received numerous honors during her years at JSU including the 2005 English Department Leadership Award, the 2006 John C. Turner Award for Communication Student of the Year and the 2006 Academic Award for Print Journalism. She was editor-in-chief of the campus newspaper, The Chanticleer, for 2005-06.

Fall 2006 49

The Capital Campaign

In higher education,

50 Gem Gemof ofthe theHills Hills 50

never just

a fundraising campaign is

about money.

It’s about people–

the students who benefit from an educational experience, the faculty that inspires and mentors those students, the staff that provides operational support, and the alumni who embody the university’s educational mission in communities around the world.

It’s about the programs, facilities, and technologies that enable learning.

It’s about matching a donor’s interests with a university priority to provide support for people, programs, facilities, or technologies.

And it’s why the goals for The Power of 125…Join the Celebration! go far beyond raising $25 million.

As we look to the future, it is clear how Jacksonville State will achieve its goals: through the support of alumni, faculty and staff, foundations, corporations, and friends. In the following pages you will read about the exciting ways you can make a difference at Jacksonville State University and meet some of the people who have already joined the effort in unveiling the “best kept secret in Alabama.”

Project Goal College of Nursing and Health Sciences Houston Cole Library Language Institute International House Little River Canyon Field School Technology College of Education and Professional Studies Center for Musical Arts Professorships and Chairs Fund for Excellence Athletics Student Scholarships Wellness Center Capital Campaign Subtotal

250,000 250,000 250,000 250,000 250,000 1,000,000 2,500,000 7,500,000 1,500,000 1,000,000 1,800,000 1,450,000 7,000,000 $25,000,000

Fall 2006 51

The Capital Campaign

“To all, I say thank you for your contribution and support in making Jacksonville State University a premier institution.”

J

by Earl Warren

acksonville State University’s Institutional Development Office is responsible for attracting philanthropic support including, but not limited to, annual giving, (phonathon, Direct Mail and personal solicitation), major gifts, planned and estate giving and for developing and implementing strategies to successfully identify and cultivate donors with the potential to make a gift.

Since JSU made the commitment to establish a true development office conducting primarily fundraising activities, the evaluation process of the Development Office of JSU began from a one-person operation to, over the course of the last two years, presently consisting of a full-scaled development operation.

The Institutional Development Office consists of one Administrative Assistant, two great Major Gifts Officers, and a Director of Development. Long-term goals are to add an additional Major Gifts Officer, a Planned Giving Officer, and an Annual Fund Officer. The JSU Development Office is located on the third floor of Bibb Graves Hall. It is my hope that we will continue to bridge the gap between JSU and our Alumni in an effort to raise funds for our great university.

To all our constituents, I say thank you for your contribution and support in making Jacksonville State University a premier institution. It is because of you that JSU will continue to play a vital role in this area, our state, and across the world.

Now more than ever, we are better posed to build on the accomplishments of the past than at any other time in our 123 year history. Our Power of 125… Join the Celebration! capital campaign is a call to action. The commitment of our alumni and friends will help lift the university to its next level.

I encourage you, if you have not been on our JSU campus in a while, consider this your personal invitation back and call on your friends of Institutional Development to show you around.

We would be more than happy to provide a tour for you around our wonderful institution. As our development staff prepare to hit the road visiting alumni, do not be surprised when you hear the knock on your door.

52 Gemof theHills

125 Years 125 Years 125 Years 125 Years

of providing a public, comprehensive teaching institution that provides educational, cultural, and social experiences for a diverse student population. of serving as a student-centered university, striving to balance academic challenges with a range of support services for students’ academic, career, and personal goals. of producing broadly educated graduates with skills for employment, citizenship, and life-long learning. of supporting scholarly and service activities consistent with Jacksonville State University’s academic and professional strengths.

It’s Phonathon Time

by Earl Warren

This year, as Jacksonville State University gears up for its annual Phonathon, the university encourages alumni to give generously and wholeheartedly. During 2005, the annual Phonathon received 1028 gifts from contributors; 651 of those gifts were $25 or less. Although, it may appear that a gift of $5 or $100 would have little impact, every contribution has a cumulative effect on the total funds available to the university and its departments.

As the Institutional Development Director of Jacksonville State University, I know the importance of alumni support to our university.

With the institution receiving less than 50% of its total operating budget from the State of Alabama, JSU requires generous support/ contribution and deferred gifts from alumni and other constituents to continue the margin of excellence of our university, So, when your phone rings and the caller ID reads Jacksonville State, take the call and show your support by making your tax deductible contribution to any department, college, scholarship, or program that you choose. Unrestricted gifts will be used where the need is greatest.

JSU’s Giving Clubs are listed below:

Founders Society $5,000 and above Mimosa Society $2,500 to $4,999 Magnolia Society $1,000 to $2,499 Benefactor’s Club $500 to $999 Patron’s Club $250 to $499 Century Club $100 to $249

If you are unable to join a giving club this year, a donation of any amount is needed and would be greatly appreciated. You may charge your donation to VISA, Mastercard, or Debit Card, or you may pay your donation over several months.

Fall 2006 53

Planting Seeds

by Reneé Robertson

past president of the JSU Retired Teachers and Staff Association, and lifetime member of the JSU Alumni Association.

Bill and his high school sweetheart, Sandra McCurdy Stone, graduated from JSU in the late sixties, and both hold master’s degrees from JSU as well. His family has a long history of planting seeds in this community. Bill’s father, Ernest Stone, served as University President from 1971 to 1981, and the Jacksonville elementary school is named after his mother, Kitty Stone, for her dedication to the community. Bill’s favorite memories of his college years at JSU include being here as a student with Sandra, playing football for Coach Jim Blevins, being elected as Delta Chi President, and serving as Battalion Commander for his ROTC class in 1969.

He is very proud of how much the university has progressed and grown over the years. He remembers when the student body was only about 3,500 students, and now the campus is home to over 9,000 students. It brought Bill great pride to see one of his close friends, Dr. William A. Meehan, become president of the university in 1999. “It has been such a highlight for me to see him embrace his leadership of the students, faculty, and staff and truly transform this university over the past few years.”

“It takes a noble man to plant a seed for a tree that will some day give shade to people he may never meet.”

–David Trueblood

There are many “seed planters” that make up this university who work tirelessly to ensure that JSU continues to grow and succeed for years to come for those students, faculty and staff, some of whom they may never meet.

Bill Stone is one of those “seed planters” whose dedication and love for JSU is unmatched. He has served countless roles in campus organizations including ROTC retired Professor of Military Science, founding brother of Delta Chi Fraternity, board of directors for the football J-Club, ofMeehan directors Presidentboard William ’72,for ’76the JSU Foundation, member of the sixties alumni group, past president of the Gamecock Club, 54 Gemof theHills

His pride and passion for JSU is contagious, and his leadership in The Power of 125…Join the Celebration! capital campaign has been invaluable to our success.

Those close to Bill have witnessed his dedication to JSU and wanted to share a few things about him…

“Bill Stone, in my mind, has always been a part of JSU. I remember when he was in the MBA program and he asked me to tutor him in statistics. I remember when he was head of ROTC at JSU and we worked together on the SACS Self-Study in the early 1990’s. I remember his tremendous interest and involvement in that process, especially since his committee was responsible for, none other than intercollegiate athletics. It seems like Bill kind of took over where Dr. Stone left off—he followed his dad’s love for and devotion to JSU and, in particular, JSU athletics. Bill seems to always be there whenever something is needed—he has always done everything within his power to make JSU a better place. Bill Stone truly loves Jacksonville State University, and his generosity to his alma mater is outstanding!” –Dr. Louise Clark, Associate Dean

Below Left: Bill Stone and Sandra Stone. Below rigth: President Meehan and Bill Stone at the Capital Campaign Gala. Below: Bill Stone and Alan Rhinehart.

and MBA Director of the JSU College of Commerce and Business Administration “Bill is one of the founders of the J-Club and has played an integral role in helping the football program reach a level where we can be competitive in Division 1-AA. He has also served as a counsel to me because of his vast knowledge of the history of the university and the athletics program that no one else has. His family has been around JSU for a long time, so he is an endless resource of information about where we have been and helps guide me in planning where we need to go.” –Jack Crowe, JSU Head Football Coach “Of all the dedicated alumni who are involved with this university, Bill Stone’s leadership and dedication to JSU stands out because he is always willing to share the university’s mission and future vision with pride. I have known him since my first days at JSU and have seen his dedication and enthusiasm only grow stronger through the years. He is responsible for keeping many alumni connected with JSU and bringing many people back to campus who have been gone for a long time. Bill’s dedication and love of JSU exemplifiy what makes this institution unique.”

–Dr. William A. Meehan, President of JSU and Bill’s Delta Chi little brother

Fall 2006 55

The Capital Campaign

“The noblest service comes from nameless hands, and the best servant does his work unseen.” –Oliver Wendell Holmes.

But we couldn’t resist putting faces with 3 pairs of nameless hands that have worked tirelessly on behalf of the university. Below you will read about a few of the many wonderful hard-working hands that make up the spirit and liveliness of this university.

Dr. Rebecca O. Turner

Vice President of Academic and Students Affairs

By Sissy Spence Throughout the Power of 125…Join the Celebration campaign, numerous faculty and staff have played a tremendous role in our success. We have had remarkable support from our campus community, and we took a brief moment to talk with one of the many faces of this campus who are the spirit of this campaign. Dr. Rebecca O. Turner shares about her time here at JSU and what it meant to her to give back.

Dr. Turner grew up in Calhoun County and attended JSU during her freshman and sophomore years. When she decided to major in social work, Dr. Turner transferred to the University of Montevallo, the only university in the state with an undergraduate social work program. She returned to the university in 1981 to teach and develop an undergraduate major in social work, then achieve accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education.

This goal was important to her because she wanted students who 56 Gemof theHills

desired a major in social work to be able to complete the professional program at JSU. The program became one of Dr. Turner’s many accomplishments in her 25 years on campus. She now serves as the Vice President of Academic and Students Affairs where she is making a tremendous impact on this institution. Her innovative approach to managing and growing our academic departments is helping raise JSU to the next level.

Dr. Turner shared memories from all aspects of her experience at JSU. As a student, she loved living in the dorms and making friends with young women from places other than her home town.

She recalls attending athletic, musical, and drama events that were fun and exciting. As a faculty member, she has great memories of helping young social work students achieve their goals and building the accredited social work program. As an administrator, she stated that great memories have come in many forms. She enjoys speaking with parents and students at orientation and getting to know new faculty as they join the JSU family. She is constantly rewarded by facing the challenges of reaffirming accreditations of many academic programs, problem solving issues to reach sound decisions that will benefit our students, and acquiring resources to improve the quality of our campus environment. But the most gratifying aspect of her time at JSU has been working with an outstanding team of administrators, faculty, and staff. These memories and many others are the reasons that Dr. Turner loves her institution, and she shared with us why she enjoys giving back. “My decision to contribute to the capital campaign was not a difficult one for my husband and me to make. JSU has been an important part of my life for the past 25 years, and as an employer, JSU has been good to me. I have

been supported in my professional development and nurtured as I learned new roles along the way. My hard work has been rewarded throughout the years, and it is time for me to give back to this university that I love so much.” The leadership and generosity that Dr. Rebecca O. Turner has portrayed is unprecedented. Her desire and willingness to give back in so many ways and support the Power of 125…Join the Celebration capital campaign will benefit JSU for many years to come.

“Dr. Turner’s effectiveness as Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs is exemplary! She is totally focused on promoting quality at JSU. Her judgment is impeccable; her support of faculty and students is unsurpassed. We are truly fortunate to have a leader of her caliber at JSU!”–Dr. Sarah Latham, Dean of the Lurleen B. Wallace College of Nursing and Health Sciences

of giving back to the university. As one of the first Foundation Board members to make a gift to the campaign in support of the Fund for Excellence, he sets a wonderful example of dedication to his alma mater. Melanie Delap, Executive Director of the Foundation, spoke about working with Sperry in his new role as the President of the JSU Foundation. “Sperry consistently demonstrates his loyalty to JSU in his volunteer work leading the JSU Foundation board of directors.

We are so privileged to have someone who exhibits care and respect of others while simultaneously representing the best interests of the Foundation.” Sperry’s campaign leadership is helping Jacksonville State prepare for the future, and he has great confidence in the university’s history and people. “I think Dr. Meehan has brought a lot of great changes to the university, and I don’t think this campaign would be as successful if we didn’t have his strong leadership.” Sperry is also proud of the fact that JSU still keeps that close knit family feel and holds true to the reputation of “the friendliest campus in the south!”

Sperry Snow, ’72

JSU Foundation Board President

By Reneé Robertson Fate brought him here, and the university has benefited from that wonderful fate ever since. When Sperry Snow graduated from Shades Valley High School in Birmingham, he didn’t exactly have his sights set on college. Realizing that college was the best option for him at the time, he quickly applied to the only university whose application deadline had not yet passed. As fate would have it – that university was Jacksonville State University. He was accepted within a week and arrived on campus in the fall of 1966. He found that while JSU had been his only option, it was the best choice he could have ever made. He instantly fell in love with the friendly campus and warm caring community that still exists today at JSU. Some of Sperry’s favorite memories of JSU involve going to Gamecock football games. He remembers how much excitement and student support there was at the games. “In those days you had to make sure to get to the stadium early to ensure you had a seat.”

Mr. Snow graduated in 1972 and is the co-owner of BartonClay Fine Jewelers in Mountain Brook. He has stayed involved with the university since he graduated and was named JSU’s Alumnus of the Year in 1978 and served as the president of the National Alumni Association from 1976-1977. “Sperry has always been a strong supporter of the Alumni Association. If I ever need anything, I know that he is only a phone call away. He has been involved with the JSU National Alumni Association for many years and truly cares about JSU’s future and is always there to lend a hand,” said Kaci Ogle, Director of Alumni Affairs.

He has recently been elected as the president of the JSU Foundation Board. In his new role, he understands the importance

Cleo Thomas

Member, International House Foundation Board

By Earl Warren Cleo Thomas supports Jacksonville State University with time and financial support. He is a current member and past president of the International House Board at JSU. He and his wife, Dr. Carla Thomas, make a wonderful gift of stock annually to support JSU. The Thomas’s generosity provides funds for an endowment for the Cleo and Carla Thomas Award – an award presented each year to honor University faculty members for outstanding public services. “Often, the faculty is overlooked, and we wanted to support the teaching enterprise and honor faculty service and activities” says Thomas, an attorney with offices in his native Anniston and in Birmingham.

“Northeast Alabama is a beautiful, vibrant, interesting place to live, work, and wonder. The source of its topographical distinctiveness and natural beauty is divine. Much of the rest of what makes our region wonderful can be traced directly to JSU. Without JSU, much of the natural beauty would remain, but it would fade from the idyllic and pastoral into the merely undeveloped and vaguely primitive.

This beautiful stretch of creation at the foothills of the Appalachian mountain range might well become just another patch of countryside seeking to evade the label, Appalachia” says Thomas.

“Carla and I have been touched by JSU. Graduates of JSU have delivered our children (Barbara Moersch ’71), taught us how not to split infinitives (Anne Phillips ’60, MS ’72 and Christine Rentschler Continued on next page.

Fall 2006 57

The Capital Campaign Continued from previous page.

’66, MS ’67), governed our state and married our college classmate (Jim Folsom, Jr. ’74), coached our children (Earl Warren ’93), nursed us when we were sick (Crystal Maddox ’04), ministered unto our souls (Anthony Chatmon ’99), counseled and advised us (Bobby Malone ’75), given educational guidance (Sue P. Moore ’72), astonished us with knowledge of the Civil War (Marcus Reid ’77), provided a matchless example of institutional leadership (William P. Dunaway ’59), brought music and drama into our schools and from there into our lives and made the lyrics of Rogers and Hammerstein as basic to our coming of age as the verses of the bible (Sam Thompson), and been a treasured family friend (Olga Kennedy ’55, MS ’59)” says Thomas.

“Cleo Thomas is a person for whom I have great admiration.

There is no doubt he has succeeded professionally, but more important than professional achievement is his success as a person of integrity who demonstrates daily his commitment to his family and his community. He is a true public servant, whose compassion for others is reflected in the way he lives his life. As a matter of course, he contributes time, wisdom, and fiscal resources to the community he loves, including Jacksonville State University, which he loves, although it is not his alma mater. He and his wife Dr. Carla Thomas are great parents to their three children, who are likely viewed by Cleo and Carla as their greatest accomplishments. I could not agree more!”–Dr. Rebecca O. Turner, JSU, Vice President, Academic & Student Affairs “When Cleo Thomas was the President of the International Endowment Foundation, Inc., he worked enthusiastically to create cultural opportunities for International House Students. Cleo was a fountain of ideas for activities, and he always backed those ideas up with follow-through. Good things happen around Cleo, and our students are very appreciative of him. Thanks to his efforts, many of our students have deepened their relationships with the community of Calhoun County. He has, of course, remembered the International Program with annual donations. But his greatest contribution has always been his willingness to bring his incredible energy and charm into play for the good of international students.”–Dr. John J. Ketterer, JSU, Assistant Professor of Educational Resources and Director of International House and Programs

58 Gemof theHills

The Story of a Gift

Merrill Ingram

by Sissy Spence

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” –Helen Keller The well known Alabamian, Helen Keller, stated these words many years ago, but could have very easily been describing a loyal alumnus of JSU, Mr. Merrill Ingram.

Merrill Ingram has endured many trials in his life, but through his experiences, he has gained strength and built on his past to achieve great success that has enabled him to give back to those who helped him along the way.

Merrill grew up extremely poor, and for most of his young life his family was on welfare. He was born in Gadsden, AL, and was one of six brothers and sisters. When he was seven his mother was stricken with cancer, and by age nine he lost her to the disease. His father was unable to care for the children and turned them over to the church. Over the next few years, Merrill was placed with a family and suffered much physical and emotional abuse. Eventually, Merrill was taken to the Alabama Sheriff’s Girls and Boys Ranch where he was placed with two house parents, Tony and Carole Birchfield. They had a tremendous positive influence on Merrill’s life and he spoke fondly of his time with them. “Tony and Carole Birchfield provided a loving Christian family that gave me encouragement Left: Merrill Ingram and family.

and taught me the importance of love and discipline. I am still very close and visit with them whenever I can and love them very much.”

At the age of 15, Merrill enrolled at John T. Morgan High School and later attended Marion Military Institute for one year.

During his time at Morgan and Marion, he developed a strong passion for athletics. Merrill excelled in sports and was offered a scholarship to Jacksonville State University to play football under Coach Jimmy Fuller. Some of Merrill’s fondest memories of JSU were playing football and making life long friends like Charles T. McCreary, Loring White, Joe Henderson and Eddie Garfinkle. These memories invoke a lot of passion in Merrill and he has found himself in a position to inspire many young JSU student athletes by helping provide funding to impact their programs tremendously.

Merrill has made the largest gift ever to women’s athletics at JSU. His gift to the women’s softball program will help to fulfill many dreams of young student athletes. Jana McGinnis, the head women’s fast pitch softball coach, spoke about what his generosity has done for the program. “JSU Softball is very fortunate to have a contributor like Mr. Merrill Ingram. He is a very generous man who has a personal interest in both female and male sports. We have plans on putting this money into our new Division I softball facility.

This will be a facility that JSU and our student athletes will take much pride in. We are so thankful for Mr. Merrill Ingram and his family. His love for JSU athletics is very evident.”

Another area that has been touched by Merrill is Gamecock Football. Jack Crowe, the head football coach, talked about the impact that Merrill has made on so many of his athletes. “Merrill was an impact athlete when he played football at JSU and has made a major personal contribution that exceeded any of our expectations.

His gift will be a tremendous force as we strive to compete at the next level with the future of our program. He has set himself apart in his usual way.”

Merrill attributes the successes in his life to his belief in God and to his family. “My wife and my kids are my life.” He has been a successful developer in both commercial and residential construction for over 20 years and now lives in Pike Road, AL. Merrill’s wife of 25 years, Phyllis, is a managing partner with Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC which is ranked the 38th largest accounting firm

by Public Accounting Reports (PAR) in the nation. They have two children, Alyson Claire, age 16, and Dylan, age 11. We asked Phyllis Ingram to share her thoughts on Merrill’s giving. “I have known Merrill for more than 28 years, and I can honestly say that he is the most generous person that I know. He works very hard and gives so much back to the community, his church, and to children and youth activities. It is important for Merrill to contribute financially to children and youth activities because of his own life experience.”

We asked Merrill why he made the decision to give back so generously to JSU. “I wanted to give the players today the ability to accomplish their dreams. I give back because I have been so blessed in my life and I want to help the university that gave me the foundation to get where I am today. Playing football helped me develop the discipline and teamwork that I did not learn as a young child, and those lessons have played a big part in my accomplishments in life.”

The Board of Trustees at Jacksonville State University have passed a resolution naming the courtyard located at the newly constructed Bob and Lou Kennamer Hall the “Merrill Dillard Ingram Courtyard” in honor of his gift to the women’s fast-pitch program.

Also, the student-athletic lounge located in the Gamecock Field House will be named the “Merrill Dillard Ingram Student-Athlete Lounge” as a tribute to his gift to the football program. Merrill’s gifts to JSU will benefit our athletic programs for years to come and his generosity and inspiring life story will be remembered forever.

Fall 2006 59

Thank You! The Capital Campaign

to our donors...

Mr. Jerald D. Abercrombie Ms. Ann Acker Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Adams Ms. Susan Adderhold Ms. Trula F. Addison Dr. Okon H. Akpan Dr. Safaa H. Al-Hamdani Alabama Power Foundation, Inc. Alfa Mutual Insurance Company Mr and Mrs. Jon Alford Mr. and Mrs. Donald Allison American Printing Company, Inc. AmSouth Bank Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Ted Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Gary Angel Mr. and Mrs. Marcus E. Angle, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Tahir S. Ansari Ms. Sarah Aultman Dr. Adrian F. Aveni Mr. Rodney Bailey Mr. Steven Bailey Mr. Alex Baker Mr. Neal and Mrs. Sarah Ballard Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Barclift Ms. Allyson Barker Dr. and Mrs. Timothy Barnett Mr. and Mrs. Max Bass Mr. and Mrs. William Batchelor Ms. Karen Bates Dr. Thomas Baucom Ms. Kristi Beam Ms. Bonnie Beard Ms. Susan Beard Ms. Deborah Bearden Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Beason Mr. Scott W. Beckett Mr. and Mrs. Bedford Dr. Noureddine Bekhouche Mr. and Mrs. David R. Belcher Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Bellamy Mr. Don Bennett Dr. Doris S. Bennett Mr. and Mrs. James R. Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Tony Bennett Dr. Cole Benton Ms. Mary Daniell Bevis Mr. Bob and Mrs. Debby Bishop Dr. and Mrs. Stephen C. Bitgood Ms. Dorinda Black Mr. Glenn and Mrs. Belinda Blackburn Ms. Lori Jones Blackmon Dr. Benjie Blair Mr. Lane Blankenship

60 Gemof theHills

Mr. and Mrs. William C. Blaylock Mr. Patrick Bolack Mr. A. W. Bolt Ms. Amanda Swader Bonds Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Bonds Ms. Debbie Bonner Dr. Benjamin Bryan Boozer, Jr. Mr. Ted Boozer, Sr. Dr. Patricia and Mr. Allan Borstorff Mr. Steven M. Botello Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Bougere Dr. William R. and Mrs. Janet A. Bowen Mr. Elbert and Mrs. Linda Bright Ms. Janice Brim Ms. Joy Brindle Drs. Joseph and Syble Brindley Ms. Kaitrin Neill Brothers Dr. and Mrs. Glen Browder Mr. Johnny Michael Brown Ms. Vicky L. Brown Ms. Vivian Morgan Brown Ms. Joanne E. Bruer MG (Ret.) and Mrs. Dave Bryan Mr. Dan R. Bryant Ms. Marian Bryant Ms. Paula R. Buchanan Mr. Bryan Burgess Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Burke Mrs. Christy Lynn Burns Ms. Michelle Burr Mr. and Mrs. Brad Butler Mr. and Mrs. Willard J. Butterworth Mr. and Mrs. H. Dean Buttram III Mr. Willie Francis Byrd Ms. Diana Cadwallader Ms. Linda L. Cain Ms. Ann Marie Callahan Mr. and Mrs. Mark Camp Mr. Robert and Mrs. Kathy Campbell Ms. Gladys Carlisle Mr. Clint Carlson Dr. and Mrs. William D. Carr Mr. Charles Leeman Carroll Dr. Robert E. Carter, Jr. Mr. Jerry Theodore Carter Mr. and Mrs. James Case Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Casey Mr. Terry W. Casey Ms. Tracy Casey Ms. Misty Cassell CBE, Inc. Dr. Hayden Darwin Center, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Alan Ceravola

Ms. Michelle Champagne Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Chandler Ms. Ruth Chandler Dr. Chi-Chin Chao Ms. Laurie Ann Charnigo Ms. Stacey Charping Ms. Elene Chastain Ms. Tamara Chastain Mr. and Mrs. Woodrow Cheatwood Ms. Gail Childs Ms. Gena Christopher CIBA Specialty Chemicals Foundation Ciba-Geigy Corp Dr. Wayne H. Claeren Mr. and Mrs. Reid Clark Dr. Michael C. Clayton Dr. Ronnie Clayton Mr. Freddy Clements Mr. and Mrs. Noah Cleveland Dr. and Mrs. George Cline Dr. Richard Cobb Mr. and Mrs. Richard Cobb Mr. Wallace Cobb, Jr. Mr. Fred Coble Mr. and Mrs. Grant Cockrell Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Coggins Ms. Delores Collier Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Connell, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Pete Conroy Ms. Patsy A. Conway Mr. Llewellyn Cook Mr. and Mrs. David Ronald Copeland Ms. Paula Mikulak Davis Dr. and Mrs. Barry Cox Mr. James and Mrs. Sandra Coxwell Rep. Robert E. Cramer Mr. and Mrs. Danny Craven Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Cromer Ms. Gena Cronan Mr. and Mrs. Jack Crowe Drs. Mike and Yolanda Crowe Mr. Lonnie Wayne Cummings Dr. and Mrs. Brent Cunningham Dr. and Mrs. Bruce Cunningham Ms. Deborah Curry Dr. Alice Cusimano Mrs. Denise D. Dasilva Mr. Clarence W. Daugette III Ms. Nancy G. Daugherty Dr. Hope Davis Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Davis Mr. Lemuel Davis Mr. and Mrs. Mike Davis

Dr. and Mrs. Randall Davis Dr. Richards P. Davis Ms. Tessa Davis Mr. Kenneth Day Dr. LaJoyce Debro Decall, Inc. Ms. Debra Deering Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Deerman Mr. Sid Deerman Dr. Joe and Mrs. Melanie Delap Dr. David W. Dempsey Ms. Sunna Denny Ms. Sherron B. Deweese Dr. Ardie Dial Mr. Jamie Dickeson Ms. Martha M. Dingler Dr. Jeffrey Dodd Mr. James Douglas Mr. Darren Douthitt Mr. and Mrs. Steve Downing Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Dupree Dr. Israel and Dr. Charlotte Eady East Coast Impex, Inc. Ms. Nancy Edge-Schmitz Mr. and Mrs. James Edwards Ms. Carrie Elkins Mr. John Ellis Ms. Paula Ellis Mr. and Mrs. Ray Emanuel Mr. James Epik Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Etheredge Mr. Allen and Mrs. Jan Evans Ms. Janet Evans Dr. Robert Evans Dr. and Mrs. Mark Fagan Mr. Arthur McWane Fairley Mr. and Mrs. Robert Faison Mr. and Mrs. Jim Farrell Dr. Wendy A. Faughn Dr. and Mrs. Robert Felgar Dr. William T. and Mrs. Jacqueline M. Fielding Ms. Pam Findley Ms. Angie Finley Gov. and Mrs. James E. Folsom, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Donnie Ray Ford Ms. Linda Ford Ms. Sandra Ford Ms. Jennifer Ferrell Foster Dr. Guillermo A. Francia III Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Frank Ms. Amy Franklin Ms. Linda Frazier Friends of Bud Cramer Drs. Rodney and Kathleen Friery Ms. Patsy Frost Dr. Frank C. Fuller Mr. and Mrs. Jim Fuller Mrs. Barbara Gaddy Dr. and Mrs. Charles Gamble Ms. Susan W. Gardner Mr. Joe Allen Garner Mr. and Mrs. Tim Garner Mr. Aaron Lee Garrett Mr. Gary E. Gee Gewin Tucker & Associates Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Gladen

Mr. and Mrs. David Glenn Ms. Valerie A. Glesner Dr. and Mrs. Carl W. Gooding Mr. Phillip and Mrs. Debra Goodwin Ms. Melissa S. Gowens Mr. and Mrs. John-Bauer Graham Drs. Parker and Sue Granger Mr. and Mrs. Gary Gray Mr. Larry Gray Mr. and Mrs. William Gray Mr. Andrew C. Green Ms. Mary Christan Green Mr. and Mrs. Richard Green Ms. Jane Greene COL(Ret.) Therman R. Greene Dr. and Mrs. Kelly Gregg Dr. William Griffin, Jr. Mr. Charles Groover Dr. Jennifer Gross Dr. Jan Gryko Ms. Norma Gunter Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Guthrie Mr. Gregory Halligan Ms. Christy Allison Hamilton Dr. Mijitaba Hamissou Dr. John Hammett II Dr. Kingsley O. Harbor Dr. Pitt Harding III Dr. Marcia Hardney Dr. and Mrs. Ben A. Hardy Mr. and Mrs. Greg Harley Dr. and Mr. Randy Harper Mr. Kevin D. Harrelson Mr. and Mrs. Alger Harris Ms. Gerry Harris Dr. and Mrs. Ronnie Harris Mr. Robert and Mrs. Judy Harrison Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hartsaw Mr. Rainer Haspel Mr. Robert E. Hayes Ms. Barbara Hayes Ms. Miriam Haywood Dr. and Mrs. Mark Hearn Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Helms Dr. Beth and Mr. Frank Hembree Mr. Arland B. Henning Dr. Karen and Mr. John Henricks Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lee Herring Mr. John F. Hickman Ms. Carrie Hightower Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Hightower Mr. Jule Hildmann Mr. Charles Gary Hill Mr. Kory Hill Ms. Miriam Hill Ms. Susan Hillhouse Ms. Twyla Hobbs Ms. Louise Hodges Dr. Lybeth Hodges Mr. David R. Hofland Dr. Harry O. Holstein Mr. Kenny Holt Honeywell Hometown Solutions Ms. Deborah Hood Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Hood Ms. Brenda Hooks

Mr. Jack Hopper Ms. Linda Horan Ms. Gloria P. Horton Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Hoult Mr. Bill Hubbard Ms. Antoinette Hudson Mr. Clark D. Hudspeth Dr. and Mrs. William Hug Ms. Denise Hunt Mr. Kennith G. Hunter Dr. Augustine Ihator Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Inglis Mr. Merrill Ingram International House Program Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Isom Ms. April Jackson Dr. and Mrs. Harvey H. Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Jackson Ms. Mandy James Ms. Cynthia Jeffers Mr. and Mrs. Julian Jenkins Mr. Thomas O. Jenkyn Ms. Cynthia Jensen JF Smith Group Mr. Donnie and Mrs. Angela Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Johnson Dr. Howard G. Johnson Mr. Hunter B. Johnson Ms. Karen Johnson Ms. Katie G. Johnson Ms. Marilyn V. Johnson Mr. Michael Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Steven Johnston Ms. Zondra Johnston Mr. Charles and Mrs. Debra Jones Mr. Mark Jones Mr. and Mrs. Randy Jones Joseph Lumber/Forest Enterprises, Inc. JSU 60’s Group Brick Fund JSU ROTC Mr. Tsuneo Kano Mr. Harumi Kawata Mr. David Clyde Keefer Mr. Shawn Peter Keller Mr. Bobby Rae Kelley Dr. and Mrs. James F. Kelley Mr. Gene Kelton Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kendrick Mr. Bob and Mrs. Lou Kennamer Ms. Shelia Kiker Ms. Rhonda Kilgo Mr. and Mrs. Dustin Kilgore Mr. Don Killingsworth, Jr. Drs. Jaedeok and Youngmi Kim Dr. and Mrs. Michael Kimberly Dr. and Mrs. Franklin King Dr. Nina Marrs King Dr. Terasha King Mr. and Mrs. Rufus Kinney Mr. Sam and Mrs. LaDonna Kinsaul Mr. and Mrs. David Kinsaul Mr. and Mrs. Bill Kinzy Mr. Floyd Kirby Ms. Stephanie Kirby Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Kiser Mr. Jeff and Mrs. Karen Kisor Fall 2006 61

Dr. Theresa Kisor Mr. Grover H. Kitchens Dr. Ted Klimasewski Ms. Mary Klug Mr. James and Mrs. Martha Knight Ms. Carol Kornegay Dr. Ronald Koss Dr. Srinivasarao Krishnaprasad Ms. Suzanne La Rocca Mr. and Mrs. William Larson Dr. Sarah and Mr. Joel Latham Dr. George Lauderbaugh Mr. William H. Lazenby Mr. and Mrs. Grady “Tripp” Leach Mr. and Mrs. Charles Leesburg Dr. Michal Levasseur Mr. Keith Little Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Little Dr. and Mrs. John Logsdon Ms. Esther Lopez Mr. and Mrs. Steve Loucks Mr. Larry and Mrs. Linda Love Mr. Keith Lowe Dr. Bill Lowe Mr. Stan and Mrs. Tienhan Ma Mr. Donald and Mrs. Mary MacArgel Mr. and Mrs. Timothy MacTaggart Mr. Joseph and Mrs. Joy Maloney Ms. Lani Malysa Manning Insurance Agency Mr. and Mrs. Terry Marbut Dr. and Mrs. Michael Marker Mr. Bill Martin Mr. Dennis Martin Mr. and Mrs. Donald Martin Mr. and Mrs. William Martin Ms. Karen Maxwell Mr. Fred May LTC and Mrs. Doc May Mr. and Mrs. James H. Mayben Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Mays Mr. Kenneth and Mrs. Sonja McAbee Dr. and Mrs. Hugh McCain, Jr. Ms. Susan McCain Dr. Cynthia and Mr. Patrick McCarty Mr. Steven McClellan Mr. Tim McCord Ms. Martha C. McCormick Mr. Kenneth and Mrs. Linda McCrelles Dr. Claudia E. McDade Mr. James McDaniel Mr. and Mrs. Kevin McFry Ms. Pamela S. McGhee Dr. W. Legare McIntosh, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. James E. McIntyre, Jr. Mr. Thomas and Mrs. Judy McKibbin Ms. Kay McKinney Mr. James E. McLaughlin Ms. Angie McVeigh Dr. Mark Meade Mr. Kyle and Mrs. Robbie Medders Dr. and Mrs. William A. Meehan Dr. and Mrs. Ron Mellen Merrill Lynch & Co. Foundation, Inc. Dr. John and Mrs. Ellen C. Merriman Mr. and Mrs. Tony Messer

62 Gemof theHills

Mr. Daniel Miller Mr. Christopher and Mrs. Stephanie Miller Mr. Robert Mills Mr. Gary and Mrs. Martha Mitchell Dr. Mary B. Montgomery Dr. and Mrs. Theron E. Montgomery Mr. and Mrs. Don Moon Ms. Audrey Moore Mr. Wayne and Mrs. Carol Moore Mr. and Mrs. James Morgan Ms. Veronica Morin Ms. Renee Simmons Morrison Ms. Carla M. Moses Ms. Suzanne Muller Mr. and Mrs. David Myer Mr. Donald and Mrs. Karen Myers Mr. and Mrs. Greg Nabors Ms. Lynne Nabors LTC. Robert G. Nabors Mr. Vincent and Mrs. Paula Napoli Nationwide Insurance Mr. Richard Naugher Ms. Elizabeth Nelson Dr. and Mrs. J. Gordon Nelson Mr. L. Andrew Nelson Mr. and Mrs. Philip New Dr. Mary Newton Dr. Alfred Nichols Ms. Rhonda Noah Mr. John M. Noel Ms. Cheryl Norred Dr. and Mrs. Charles E. Notar Dr. and Mrs. Steve Nowlin Mr. Harry Nuttall Ms. Marilyn S. O’Donnell Mr. Jimmy and Mrs. Kaci Ogle Ms. Taska Williamson Oliver Ms. Tiffany Onkst Mr. Jorge Ortega Mr. and Mrs. Carter Osterbind Dr. Lori Owens Ms. Lynetta Owens Mr. Donnie and Mrs. Patricia Owens Ms. Manila Pachoud Mr. and Mrs. Gene Padgham Dr. William Palya Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Pantazis Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Parker Mr. and Mrs. Miller Parnell Mr. and Mrs. Randall Parris Mr. Mike Parris Maj. Gregory V. Pass Mr. and Mrs. David Patterson Mr. and Mrs. Fred Pearson Ms. Peggy Peeples Ms. Courtney Peppers-Owen Mr. Jerry A. Perkins Dr. Philip R. Perkins Mr. and Mrs. Joey Peters Ms. Mary Jane Peters Dr. Ken Pilgreen Ms. Linda A. Pinson Ms. Ann Poe Mr. and Mrs. James Poe Mr. Charles Ponder Mr. and Mrs. Sean Ponder

Ms. Pamela R. Pope Ms. Judy L. Porter Mr. Guice Potter, Jr. Mr. Todd Prater Maj. and Mrs. Ronnie Preston Mr. Carl T. Preuninger Ms. Diane Gray Price Mr. and Mrs. David Primm Mr. Bob Bruner Primm Ms. Betsy Pritchett Mr. and Mrs. Ted Propes Dr. Donald S. Prudlo Ms. Jennifer Kay Pruitt Dr. Jean M. Pugliese Mr. Joseph Pyland Ms. Molly Raisanen Ms. Rebecca M. Rakestraw Ms. Rakeshia Dena Ransaw Dr. and Mrs. James R. Rayburn Mr. Jerry O. Reaves Mr. Tom Reid Mr. and Mrs. Alan Renfroe Ms. Sherri Restauri Mr. and Mrs. Chris Reynolds Ms. Jan Rhodes Rev. and Mrs. David Rice Mr. Donyale Valtae Richard Mr. and Mrs. Allan Ridgeway Ms. Rebecca T. Ridley Mr. Keith and Mrs. Diane Riley Ms. Valerie Hamilton Rimpsey Mr. Raymond Ringer Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ringer Dr. James E. Roberts Ms. and Mrs. Greg Roberts Mr. Mack Roberts Ms. Tawana Roberts Dr. W. Tim Roberts Ms. Renee Robertson Dr. and Mrs. Peter Robinson Ms. Uta F. Rohs Mr. and Mrs. James Romine Mr. and Mrs. G. Carter Roper Mr. and Mrs. Gary Roper Ms. Cathy L. Rose Mr. and Mrs. John Rosier Dr. and Mrs. Glenn Roswal Mr. Gary Routman Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Rowe Mr. Lee Rudolph Ms. KaSandra Russaw Mr. Mardracus L. Russell Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Sallee Mr. Carlos G. Sanchez Mr. Danny Michael Sanders Ms. Gagandeep Sarkaria Dr. Roger Alan Sauterer Dr. and Mrs. Perry L. Savage Dr. Ralph Lee Savage Dr. Bill H. Schmidt Dr. Colleen and Mr. Clint Schmitt Mr. and Mrs. Terry Schneider Mr. and Mrs. Brian Schooley MAJ Gregory Scott Dr. and Mrs. Bill Scroggins Drs. Al and Joyce Searway

Ms. Susan S. Sellers Mr. Emory Richard Serviss Mr. and Mrs. Joe Serviss Dr. James Sewastynowicz Mr. Dean Shackelford Mr. and Mrs. Pat Shaddix Mr. David S. Shadix Mr. Marvin L. Shaw Mr. Joel Keith Shears Ms. Linda Shelton Mr. Wilson J. Sherrell Ms. Marva G. Sikes Mr. and Mrs. Suman Silwal Mr. and Mrs. Steve Simmons Dr. Cathy A. Simpson Mr. Brandon Lee Singleton Ms. Bethany Skaggs SM, III Technologies, Inc. Ms. Janet L. Smart Mr. Buddy Larry Smith Mr. Daniel Eric Smith Dr. Edwin H. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Wayland Smith Mr. and Mrs. Michael Smith Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Smith Dr. T. Allen Smith Mr. and Mrs. Tim Smith Mr. William R. Smith Dr. John Edward Sneed Mr. and Mrs. Tony Snider Mr. B. Sperry Snow Dr. J. F. “Pete” Sparks Ms. Alicia R. Spence Ms. Lora B. Spivey SSI State Farm Companies Foundation Dr. David Allen Steffy Ms. Charlene L. Stephens Ms. Helen Steakley Stephens Ms. Kimberly Stevens Dr. Janet Gail Steward Mr. and Mrs. Donald Stewart Dr. Nancy Stewart Mr. and Mrs. Dustin W. Stinson Dr. Mary and Mr. Ronnie Stinson Mr. and Mrs. Sam Stinson Ms. Mary Giles Stokesberry Mr. and Mrs. William E. Stone Mr. Jim and Mrs. Sherry Brady-Storey Mr. and Mrs. Karl Strain Dr. and Mrs. Jack Street Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm B. Street, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Stricklin Ms. Patsy Strother Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Stuart Mr. and Mrs. Jose’ Suco Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Sudduth Dr. and Mrs. L. Gordon Sumner, Jr. Sunny King Motor Co. Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Surrett Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Symonds Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Taylor Ms. Emily Taylor Mr. Snooky and Mrs. SharonTaylor Ms. Kathleen Terry Mr. and Mrs. Randy Terry

The Lanny S. Vines Foundation The Marietta Daily Journal Dr. Carla and Mr. Cleophus Thomas, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. John C. Thomas Mr. and Mrs. John K. Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Evin Thompson Ms. Robin Miles Thompson Dr. and Mrs. Roland Thornburg, Jr. Mr. David Charles Thornton Mr. and Mrs. James Thornton, Sr. Ms. Patricia J. Tippett Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Toney Mr. Chuck and Mrs. Pam Torruella Ms. Melinda Hope Trantham Mr. and Mrs. David Troup Mr. and Mrs. Charles Turner Ms. Tia Turner Ms. Nancy Turner Mr. Kevin Turley Dr. Rebecca and Mr. Arlin Turner Mr. Tommy Turner Mr. and Mrs. Tracy Tyler Dr. Carol Uline Mr. David Anthony Upton Ms. Lynn M. Varcak Dr. Nagarajan Vasumathi Dr. and Mrs. Lawson Veasey Wachovia Corporation Wachovia Foundation Matching Gifts Program Dr. J. Earl Wade Mr. Charlie D. Waldrep Waldrep, Stewart & Kendrick, LLC Mr. Gerald Walker Mr. G. Alan Wallace Ms. Hanrong Wang Mr. Ralph Carlton Ward, Jr. Mr. Earl Warren Ms. Gloria F. Watson Dr. Laura M. Weinkauf Ms. Ann M. Wells Mr. Ryan Welty Ms. Angela Whetstone Mr. Roger and Mrs. Debra Whitaker Ms. Audria Adamson White Dr. and Mrs. James S. White Ms. Janet White Mr. Loring White Mr. Ted A. White Dr. George Whitesel Mr. Joe Whitmore Dr. Steven J. Whitton Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Whorton Dr. Nathan N. Wight Mr. and Mrs. Edward R. Wilkinson Mr. Sean Williamon Dr. Anita Kay Williams Ms. Connie Morgan Williams Ms. Emily Renee Williams Mr. James Roy Williams Dr. Joann Krauss Williams Ms. Lisa Williams Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Wilson Dr. Janell Wilson Ms. Maryann Wilson Mr. and Mrs. P. O. Wilson Mr. Penn Goodwin Wilson

Ms. Carol S. Winsor Ms. Kimberley J. Womack Dr. and Mrs. Randy Wood Ms. Stacy Wood Ms. Manuela Woodruff Ms. Sue Johnson Woods Mr. Charles and Mrs. Julia Wooster Ms. Linda Yost Ms. Brenda Ann Young Mr. and Mrs. Brian Young Mr. and Mrs. Millard Young, Jr. Ms. Pam Young Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Young Young Oil Company, Inc. Dr. Jeffrey Scott Zanzig Mr. and Mrs. David Zeigler Dr. Nouredine Zettili Dr. Dennis C. Zuelke

Fall 2006 63

Did you leave your name in stone...

Make sure you left your mark at JSU for future generations to see!

Purchase a brick to be placed at the JSU Alumni house for only $50.

...at your alma mater.

Proceeds from this brick program will be used to fund scholarships for deserving students at JSU. Thank you for your support!

Alumni Brick Order Form Please complete the following information and return to: JSU Alumni Affairs Office, 700 Pelham Road North Jacksonville, AL 36265 Purchaser’s Name (please print) ____________________________ Address______________________________________________ City_____________________State_________Zip_____________ Phone (Home)__________________(Work)___________________ E-mail Address ________________________________________

$50 per brick Method of Payment (please check one) Check (make your check payable to: JSU Foundation) VISA

Mastercard

American Express

Account # _________________Exp. Date_________

Signature ___________________________________ “I’m purchasing a brick as a gift for:” Name_________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________Brick size: 4” x 8” City_______________________State________Zip___________ Three lines, 16 characters or spaces per line (Indicate your engraving information in the boxes below) Yes, please notify recipient of my gift.

Samples:

In Memory of (name) Class of ’____

64 Gemof theHills

or

(name) Class of ’____ Go Gamecocks

www.jsu.edu/alumni • alumni@jsu.edu • 800-231-5291, ext. 5404

Skiing Anyone?

Join us in Big Sky for a week of fun in the snow!

March 18-23, 2007 Visit www.jsu.edu/alumni for pricing and accommodations.

Contact the alumni office today to find out more information.

JSU Alumni are headed to

Las Vegas!

Join us December 2-5 for three nights at Treasure Island!

Rooms have a view of the strip and tickets to Mystere by Cirque du Soleil are included in the price.

Airfare from Atlanta Pricing*: Single, $910; Double, $685; Triple, $625; Quad, $595 Prices are per person and include airfare, hotel, transfers, and show ticket *Taxes and service charges are subject to change

CONTACT THE ALUMNI OFFICE TODAY TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATION!

Alumni Affairs 700 Pelham Road N Jacksonville, AL 36265-1602

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID JSU